Scabies is an itchy skin condition that affects people after exposure to the Sarcopetes scabiei mite. The mites transfers from person to person through prolonged skin contact. Topical antiparasitic creams such as permethrin 5 percent help treat the condition. To use the medication, an individual with scabies applies the cream to the entire body before bed, and washes it off in the morning. Repeating the treatment a week later helps kill any eggs that hatched following the first application. As with all medicines, side effects may occur.
Skin Reactions
An individual using permethrin may experience irritation to the skin after using the medication. A burning or stinging sensation may occur in the area with the highest concentration of mites or for individuals with a severe infestation. Other skin reactions include itching, swelling or redness, according to Drugs.com.
Numbness, Tingling, Headache and Dizziness
Some individuals using permethrin may experience unusual sensations and neurological changes. These sensations include numbness or tingling to the body following the application of the medication, according to RxList.com. Other adverse reactions that may occur when using permethrin include a headache and dizziness.
Gastrointestinal Problems
After using permethrin 5 percent cream, an individual may experience pain or upset in the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, according to Drugs.com.
Allergic Reactions
If an individual has an allergy to any ingredient of the medication, an allergic reaction may occur. Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips or tongue, hives on the skin, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms signify a medical emergency and an individual needs to seek immediate medical attention.
