More than 1 million children in the U.S. suffer from head lice each year, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Typically, lice treatments involve over-the-counter medications in conjunction with home-care procedures, such as cleaning contaminated clothing and other items. However, lice can also be treated using prescription medications. The Mayo Clinic says that prescription treatments designed for head lice can also be used to remedy body and pubic lice infections. Talk to your doctor to determine the best course of action.
Malathion Lotion
Malathion lotion, a FDA-approved treatment for head lice, works by killing lice and a portion of lice eggs present in the affected areas. Malathion lotion is applied to hair and massaged throughout the hair and scalp. The Mayo Clinic says that this medication is flammable. Malathion should not be used around cigarettes and heated appliances, such as hair dryers or curling irons.
Benzyl Alcohol Lotion
In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved benzyl alcohol lotion for the treatment of head lice for people 6 months and older. It works by suffocating lice. Doctors prescribe benzyl alcohol lotion in two doses applied seven days apart. Side effects associated with this lotion include eye, skin and scalp irritations as well as numbness at application points.
Lindane Shampoo
Lindane shampoo works by killing lice and their eggs. While lindane shampoo is approved by the FDA for the treatment of head lice, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that it should only be used when other treatments fail. Lindane can be toxic to the nervous system. Further, lindane shampoo should not be used to treat lice in premature infants, women who are breastfeeding or pregnant, patients with seizure disorders or anyone under 110 lbs.
Ivermectin
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that ivermectin can be used to treat lice. However, it is not an FDA-approved treatment for lice. Doctors typically prescribe ivermectin, an oral medication, to treat roundworm infections, according to Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health.
