According to information provided by the National Library of Medicine, head lice are almost as common as colds in schoolkids under age 11. Head lice, or pediculosis capitis, are tiny insects that may be found on the scalp. They feed on blood and are highly contagious. Symptoms of lice infestation include itching and scalp tingling. Treatments do exist that can get rid of lice, as do techniques to ensure that they do not affect an entire household.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments do not require a prescription and are effective in a number of cases. Although product names may vary, according to the Centers for Disease Control, they should contain either pyrethrin or permethrin. Pyrethrin -- derived from chrysanthemums -- works against living lice only, so it must be used again after a week and a half to kill any new lice that weren't hatched during the first treatment. Permethrin is a man-made chemical that is similar to pyrethrin. Some lice are resistant to pyrethrin and permethrin, and some individuals may be allergic to pyrethrin, so patients should consult a physician or pharmacist about any concerns.
Prescription Treatments
When over-the-counter treatments fail to kill head lice, a doctor may prescribe a stronger, prescription medication. Prescription treatments for head lice include malathion and lindane. Malathion is an organophosphate chemical that not only kills living lice but also some lice eggs, called nits. It still requires a second use, however, to kill all hatched eggs. Lindane, an organochloride, is usually only prescribed after other treatments have failed. Because these are strong chemicals, the Centers for Disease Control notes that women who are pregnant or breast feeding may want to consult a physician before using either of them.
Additional Measures to Supplement Treatment
Over-the-counter and prescription medications are typically not recommended for very young children. The Mayo Clinic suggests using a fine-toothed comb on wet hair every few days, for two weeks, to remove lice.
Additional measures can protect other family members from head lice as well as prevent re-infestation. The Mayo Clinic recommends using very hot water to wash any bedding, blankets and clothing. Then, after washing, enclose those items in sealed bags. For dry-clean items, send them for dry cleaning or place them in sealed bags. Lice need to eat every couple of days, and nits must be near the human scalp to survive, so the sealed bags will kill any lice and nits that survived washing. Also, wash in hot water all combs and brushes, and then vacuum floors and furniture.
