Causes repolarization and paralysis in scabies by disrupting sodium transport in normal nerve cells.
Therapeutic effects:
Death of parasites.
Classifications⬆⬇
Therapeutic Classification: pediculocides
Pharmacokinetics⬆⬇
Absorption: Small amounts (<2%) systemically absorbed.
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism/Excretion: Rapidly inactivated by enzymes.
Half-Life: Unknown.
Time/Action Profile⬆⬇
(pediculocidal action)
ROUTE
ONSET
PEAK
DURATION
Topical
10 min
unknown
14 days
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Instruct patient or parent to massage thoroughly into the skin from head to soles of feet. Treat infants on the hairline, neck, scalp, temple, and forehead. Remove the cream by washing after 8–14 hr. Usually 30 g (½ tube) is sufficient for adults. One application is curative.
Instruct patient to notify health care professional if scalp itching, numbness, redness, or rash occurs.
Instruct patient to avoid getting permethrin cream in eyes. If this occurs, eyes should be flushed thoroughly with water. Health care professional should be contacted if eye irritation persists.
Instruct patient on methods of preventing reinfestation. All clothes, including outdoor apparel and household linens, should be machine-washed using very hot water and dried for at least 20 min in a hot dryer. Dry-clean nonwashable clothes. Brushes and combs should be soaked in hot (130°F), soapy water for 5–10 min. Remind patient that brushes and combs should not be shared. Wigs and hairpieces should be shampooed. Rugs and upholstered furniture should be vacuumed. Toys should be washed in hot, soapy water. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for 2 wk.
If patient is a child, instruct parents to notify school nurse or day care center so that classmates and playmates can be checked.
