Permethrin
Permethrin is a topical antiparasitic medication used primarily to treat scabies infestations and head lice. It belongs to the pyrethroid class of insecticides and works by paralyzing and killing the parasites and their eggs through neurotoxic effects. The medication is typically applied as a cream or lotion to the skin or scalp and is considered a first-line treatment due to its effectiveness and favorable safety profile.
Permethrin is a topical antiparasitic used to eliminate scabies mites and head lice by paralyzing and killing them.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P03AC04
- RxNorm
- 8175
- Generic
- Permethrin
- Class
- atc-p03
- Brands
- Acticin, Elimite, Nix Cream Rinse
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 12
- Onset (min)
- 10
- Duration (h)
- 14
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- cream, lotion, cream rinse, shampoo
- Regions
- United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, India, Brazil
- Monitoring
- application-site irritation, allergic contact dermatitis
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Permethrin is primarily used to treat scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation) and head lice (Pediculus capitis). For scabies, it is applied as a 5% cream from the neck down to the entire body. For head lice, it is applied as a 1% rinse or cream rinse to the scalp and hair.
Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that acts on the nervous system of parasites. It disrupts sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, causing sustained depolarization that leads to paralysis and death of the mites, lice, and their eggs. It has minimal systemic absorption when applied topically.
Permethrin is for external use only and should be rinsed off after the recommended time (typically 8-14 hours for scabies treatment). A second application after 7-14 days is often recommended to eliminate newly hatched parasites. Side effects are usually mild and may include temporary itching, redness, or mild burning. It is generally considered safe for use in adults and children over 2 months of age, though consultation with a healthcare provider is advised for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy