Can Ivermectin Be Used For Head Lice?

The question is: can ivermectin be effective in treating head lice? There is a growing body of published data that suggests it can. It is an effective treatment for head lice but should be used with caution. It should not be used in children under fifteen kilograms or in pregnant women.

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic compound isolated from a fermented broth of bacteria. It is widely used in veterinary medicine and has recently been used in humans. It works by blocking the chloride ion channels on cellular membranes, which cause muscle paralysis. However, it requires higher concentrations to affect neurological functions in mammals.

The best way to treat head lice is with a product that is FDA-approved for this purpose. These treatments are available only on a prescription basis. Always follow the instructions on the product. If you find crawling lice after applying the product, consult your health care provider.

Head lice are spread through head-to-head contact and via items that come into contact with the head. Therefore, it is important to keep your personal belongings, hats, and towels separate from each other. It is also important to check all the members of your immediate family for head lice. For more serious cases, prescription drugs may be necessary.

A topical cream for head lice is available that contains a synthetic pyrethroid known as permethrin. This product is FDA-approved for use on children and adults six months and older. Permethrin kills live lice but doesn’t kill the eggs. The cream should be applied to dry hair and left on for ten minutes before being rinsed off. It is important to repeat the treatment every seven days.