Where Can You Buy Permethrin Cream Over the Counter?
Permethrin cream is often available over the counter, but its accessibility varies by location. In the United States, a prescription is usually required, while in some other countries, it may be available without a prescription from pharmacies and some online retailers.
Permethrin Cream: A Comprehensive Overview
Permethrin cream is a topical medication primarily used to treat scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation caused by microscopic mites. It’s also effective against lice. Understanding its uses, benefits, and application process is crucial for effective treatment.
What is Permethrin Cream and What is it Used For?
Permethrin cream is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that disrupts the nervous system of mites and lice, leading to their paralysis and death. It comes in various concentrations, but the 5% cream is the standard strength prescribed or recommended for treating scabies.
- Scabies: Primarily used to eradicate the Sarcoptes scabiei mite that causes scabies. The mites burrow under the skin, causing intense itching, especially at night.
- Lice: Also effective against head lice, pubic lice (crabs), and body lice.
Benefits of Using Permethrin Cream
Permethrin cream offers several advantages over older treatments for scabies and lice.
- High Efficacy: It boasts a high success rate in eliminating mites and lice after a single application (though a second application is often recommended after one to two weeks).
- Relatively Safe: When used as directed, permethrin cream is generally considered safe for adults and children (though caution is advised for infants under two months old; consult a doctor).
- Minimal Systemic Absorption: Very little permethrin is absorbed into the bloodstream, minimizing the risk of systemic side effects.
- Convenient Application: The cream is easy to apply at home, following the prescribed instructions.
How to Apply Permethrin Cream for Scabies
The application process is crucial for successful treatment.
- Shower or Bath: Before application, shower or bathe and dry your skin thoroughly.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of permethrin cream to all areas of the body from the neck down to the toes. Pay particular attention to areas between fingers and toes, under fingernails and toenails, wrists, armpits, groin, and buttocks.
- Leave On: Leave the cream on for 8-14 hours (usually overnight).
- Wash Off: After the recommended time, wash the cream off thoroughly with soap and water.
- Repeat (If Necessary): A second application is often recommended 1-2 weeks later to kill any newly hatched mites.
Factors Affecting Over-the-Counter Availability
The availability of permethrin cream over the counter hinges on regulations that vary significantly between countries.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Regulations | Each country sets its own rules regarding prescription requirements for medications. |
| Dosage Strength | Lower concentrations might be available OTC, while higher strengths typically require a prescription. |
| Perceived Risk | If a medication is deemed to have a higher risk of misuse or side effects, it’s more likely to be prescription-only. |
| Public Health Concerns | Concerns about antibiotic (or in this case, insecticide) resistance can influence prescription requirements. |
Risks and Side Effects
While generally safe, permethrin cream can cause some side effects.
- Common Side Effects: Mild burning, stinging, itching, or redness at the application site.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms include rash, hives, itching, swelling, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction.
- Neurotoxicity: Though rare with topical use, there are concerns about potential neurotoxic effects associated with permethrin. Follow application instructions carefully to minimize absorption.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Proper application is essential for effective treatment and to minimize side effects.
- Not applying to the entire body: Missing areas allows mites to survive and re-infest.
- Washing off too soon: This prevents the medication from working effectively.
- Not treating all household members: Scabies is highly contagious, so treating everyone in the household, even those without symptoms, is crucial to prevent re-infestation.
- Not cleaning bedding and clothing: Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the 3 days prior to treatment in hot water and dry them on high heat. Items that cannot be washed should be dry-cleaned or sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours.
Potential Alternatives to Permethrin Cream
If permethrin cream is unavailable or unsuitable, other treatment options exist.
- Ivermectin: An oral medication often prescribed for scabies. It requires a prescription.
- Lindane: A topical lotion. Due to potential neurotoxicity, it’s generally considered a second-line treatment. Also requires a prescription.
- Crotamiton: A topical cream that relieves itching but is less effective in killing mites than permethrin.
- Tea Tree Oil: Some studies suggest that tea tree oil may be effective against scabies mites, but more research is needed. Consult your doctor before using any essential oils.
Future Trends in Scabies and Lice Treatment
Research continues to explore new and improved treatments for scabies and lice. This includes the development of new topical medications, oral therapies, and preventative measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is permethrin cream safe for children?
Yes, permethrin cream is generally considered safe for children over two months of age when used as directed. However, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician before using it on infants under two months old. They may recommend alternative treatments.
Can I use permethrin cream if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
While permethrin cream is considered relatively low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before using any medication. They can assess the risks and benefits and provide personalized advice.
How long does it take for permethrin cream to work?
Itching may persist for several weeks after treatment, even if the mites are dead. This is due to an allergic reaction to the dead mites and their fecal matter. If itching is severe, your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine or topical corticosteroid to relieve the symptoms. If itching persists beyond 4 weeks, consult your doctor.
What if the itching gets worse after using permethrin cream?
Itching may initially worsen after using permethrin cream. This doesn’t necessarily mean the treatment is failing. It’s often a sign of the body’s inflammatory response. However, if the itching becomes unbearable or is accompanied by a rash, consult your doctor to rule out an allergic reaction or treatment failure.
How do I know if the permethrin cream treatment was successful?
The primary indication of successful treatment is the gradual reduction in itching. New burrows should cease to appear. A follow-up appointment with your doctor may be necessary to confirm eradication of the mites.
Can scabies become resistant to permethrin cream?
Yes, resistance to permethrin cream has been reported, although it is not common. If treatment fails, your doctor may recommend an alternative medication, such as oral ivermectin or lindane lotion.
Do I need to treat my pets for scabies?
No. The type of scabies mite that affects humans ( Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis) is different from the mites that affect animals ( Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis, etc.). Human scabies mites cannot survive on animals, and animal scabies mites cannot survive on humans for long. However, pets can transmit mites that cause cheyletiellosis (“walking dandruff”), so consult a veterinarian to rule that out if you suspect infestation.
How can I prevent re-infestation with scabies?
Thoroughly wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the 3 days prior to treatment in hot water and dry them on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture. Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
What are the symptoms of scabies?
The hallmark symptom is intense itching, especially at night. Other symptoms include a pimple-like rash, small blisters, and burrows (thin, wavy lines) on the skin. Common locations include the hands, wrists, elbows, armpits, genitals, and buttocks.
Where can I find reliable information about permethrin cream?
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for accurate information. Reputable websites like the Mayo Clinic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also provide reliable information.
Can I use permethrin cream for other skin conditions?
No. Permethrin cream is specifically designed for treating scabies and lice. Do not use it for other skin conditions without consulting your doctor.
What should I do if I accidentally swallow permethrin cream?
Seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room. Although topical absorption is low, ingestion can lead to adverse effects.