My child went back to school last month and has come home with head lice. What should I do?
There are a couple of options to treat common head lice. Permethrin 1% cream rinse (commonly known as Nix®) kills up to 99% of head lice with just one application. It even kills lice eggs and can work for up to 2 weeks. Pyrethrin shampoo (commonly known as Rid®) is a second option that causes fewer side effects like itching or stinging, but it is generally not quite as effective.
It is also generally a good idea to wash all bed sheets and pillows in warm water. Applying a bed spray that contains permethrin may produce further lice killing effects. Do not treat an infected person more than 2-3 times. If treatment is not working, these lice may be resistant and may require prescription alternatives such as Ovide® or Spinosad®.
Disclaimer: Answers to inquiries concerning information about health conditions and/or medications are not for diagnostic or treatment purposes and can not be considered conclusive without consulting with a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Any information contained here is not a substitute for medical advice and may be outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. If you are in need or immediate medical attention, contact your physician or call 911. If you need to speak to a pharmacist, call Grand Bay Pharmacy at (251) 865-5555.