Permethrin Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Permethrin Cream

Topical

Generic NamePermethrin

Therapeutic ClassTopical Antiparasitic

Common Strength5% Cream

ApplicationSingle overnight application

PregnancyCategory B

Indications ▼

Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation)

Head lice (Pediculosis capitis – lower strength formulations)

Crab lice (Pediculosis pubis)

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Acts on parasite nerve cell sodium channels, causing delayed repolarization, paralysis, and death of mites or lice.

Pharmacokinetics: Minimal systemic absorption after topical application; rapidly metabolized in skin and liver; excreted in urine.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / 24h
Adults & Children ≥2 months (Scabies)	Apply 5% cream to entire body from neck down; leave 8–14 hours then wash off	Single application (may repeat after 7–14 days if needed)
Infants (≥2 months)	Apply thin layer including scalp, neck, palms, soles	Single application
Head Lice (1% lotion)	Apply to scalp and hair; leave 10 minutes then rinse	Repeat after 7 days if needed

Note: All close contacts should be treated simultaneously. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water.

Side Effects ▼

Common: Mild burning, itching, redness

Occasional: Skin rash or irritation

Rare: Allergic contact dermatitis

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to permethrin or pyrethroids

Severe skin inflammation without medical supervision

Drug Interaction ▼

No significant systemic drug interactions reported

Avoid concurrent use with other topical irritants

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Category B; considered safe in pregnancy when used topically

Minimal absorption; generally safe during breastfeeding

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

First-line treatment for scabies due to high efficacy and low toxicity.

Single overnight application typically sufficient.

Low systemic absorption reduces risk of systemic adverse effects.

Resistance rare but reported in some regions.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Apply to clean, dry skin as directed.

Do not wash treated areas during treatment period.

Itching may persist for 1–2 weeks after successful treatment.

Treat household members simultaneously.

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 25°C

Keep tightly closed

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Scabex® 5% Cream Arotrix® 5% Cream Bepanthin® 5% Cream Delice® 5% Cream Dermanix® 5% Cream Elimate® 5% Cream Ermite® 5% Cream Florixe® 5% Cream Licerin® 5% Cream Permezen® 5% Cream Permin® 5% Cream Permisol® 5% Cream Perosa® 5% Cream Perscab® 5% Cream Pesimex® 5% Cream Remathrin® 5% Cream Scabfre® 5% Cream Scabid® 5% Cream Scameth® 5% Cream Scaper® 5% Cream Scarin® 5% Cream Unix® 5% Cream Zunex® 5% Cream

Global:

Elimite® Permethrin (Generic)

Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Antiparasitics • Condition: Scabies • Clinical Evidence & Trials