Treatment Options for Head Lice

Head lice is an infestation of very small insects in the hair and on the scalp. The condition is most common in young school-aged children, but can affect people at any age. The lice themselves are parasites that feed on human blood every 4-6 hours to survive; however they do not transmit any infectious disease. Female lice can lay up to 10 eggs (also known as nits) per day. These eggs, which hatch in about a week, appear as tiny white specs and can be passed to other people via head-to-head contact and sharing of infested head coverings, combs/brushes, or pillowcases. Intense itching of the head, scalp, and back is a sign that a person may be infected.

The nits can be removed by using a fine-toothed lice comb on wet hair. Medications known as pediculicides are effective in killing lice. Some only kill the adult lice while others kill the adult lice and nits. Permethrin 1% (Nix Creme Rinse) and pyrethrum extract with piperonyl butoxide (Rid) are available over-the-counter. Prescriptions are required for other pediculicides such as malathion 0.5% (Ovide) and spinosad (Natroba). Pediculicides are available both as shampoos, creams, lotions, and sprays. Bedding, clothing, and head coverings should also be washed thoroughly and treated.




  

  
  
Brought to you by Cheek & Scott Drugs, Inc.
A Community Pharmacy serving North Central Florida.

Live Oak:
386-362-2591
1520 Ohio Ave South; Live Oak, FL 32064

Lake City:
386-754-5377
161 Stonegate Ter; Suite 105; Lake City, FL 32024

Online:
www.CheekAndScott.com


Disclaimer