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Permethrin

Brand names: Elimite, Nix

Permethrin is a cream or lotion that kills scabies mites and head lice.

Brand namesElimite, Nix
Type of medicineLice and scabies treatment
Prescription?Both prescription (5% cream) and over the counter (1% lotion)
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

5% cream treats scabies; 1% creme rinse treats head lice.

Itching can last 2 to 4 weeks after scabies treatment even when it worked.

What it's used for

  • Scabies
  • Head lice
  • Pubic lice

How to take it

  • Scabies: apply from the neck down (scalp too for babies and older adults), leave on 8 to 14 hours, then wash off. A second treatment may be needed a week later.
  • Lice: apply to washed, towel-dried hair, leave on 10 minutes, then rinse. Repeat in 7 to 10 days if lice are seen.
  • Wash bedding, clothes, and towels in hot water, and treat close contacts as advised.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Itching, mild burning, or stinging
  • Redness or numbness of the skin
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
Call your provider todaySkin sores that look infected (red, warm, oozing, or with fever)

Warnings

  • Keep it out of the eyes, mouth, and nose.
  • Ask a provider before using it on babies under 2 months.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • No major interactions.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered safe for scabies in pregnancy. Ask your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Not applicable: it's used as one or two treatments. Follow your label for when to repeat.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.