Permethin Medication for Scabies
Permethrin is a topical medication used for the treatment of scabies. Scabies is a skin infection where mites burrow themselves into tunnels under the skin and lay eggs. The main symptom of scabies is intense itching, which is actually due to the skin's reaction to the eggs and mites' feces.
-
Permethrin
-
Permethrin is a chemical that is used as an insecticide and insect repellent in agriculture, and as a treatment for lice and scabies in medicine. Permethrin cream usually treats the scabies parasite in one application. It is applied at night, after a thorough shower, and kept on for between 8 to 14 hours, then washed off.
Side Effects
-
Side effects of Permethrin medication range from itching, tingling and irritation to a burning rash and swelling. According to Drugs.com side effects such as numbness, tingling and rash are common in only 1 to 2 percent of patients.
-
Warnings
-
The medication is extremely dangerous if an individual is exposed to too much. Overdose symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache and seizures. To avoid overexposure use exactly as the doctor prescribes.
Additional Treatment
-
While you're being treated for scabies with Permethrin, rid your home of scabies. Wash all linens, towels and bedding in hot water and dry them in a hot dryer.
Considerations
-
Permethrin should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing.
If there are open wounds or infections on your hands, wear gloves when applying the cream.
Avoid contact with your eyes while applying Permethrin.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of James Emery
