MHRA advice: Head lice eradication products: risk of serious burns if treated hair is exposed to open flames or other sources of ignition (March 2018) (www.gov.uk).

  • Consult NHS Highland guidance on the treatment of head lice and scabies prior to prescribing (NHS Highland intranet access required).  For further information contact the Health Protection Team on 01463 704886 and refer to Dermatology Patient Pathways.
  • Never use insecticides as a preventative measure as this promotes resistance. They should only be used when living lice have been found on the head.  A second treatment is always needed after 7 days to kill lice emerging from surviving eggs. 
  • Alcoholic formulations may be irritant; aqueous formulations are preferred.
  • Dimeticone is a non-insecticide preparation available for head lice treatment.
  • Nitcombs and the ‘Bug Buster Kit’, containing an illustrated guide and combs, are now available on prescription or OTC; only one kit is required for a family and it is reusable.

DIMETICONE

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

LotionOTC 4%

Dosage:

Rub into dry hair and scalp, allow to dry naturally, shampoo after minimum 8 hours (or overnight). Repeat application after 7 days.

MALATHION

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Aqueous liquidOTC 0·5%

Dosage:

Rub into dry hair and scalp, allow to dry naturally, remove by washing after 12 hours. Repeat application after 7 days.

Editorial Information

Document Id: F113