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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.
Australian Prescriber is unable to comment on individual cases or give second opinions.
Australian Prescriber Vol. 23 No. 3 2000
Treating head lice
Head lice are a common problem in school children. The lice spread from head to head by direct contact; they cannot jump or fly. Lice suck blood from the scalp. This causes itching, so lice should be looked for in children who are always scratching their heads. Although lice lay eggs on the hair, treatment is only needed if live lice are found.
There are several different treatments available and they come in different forms. Permethrin is probably the most effective but the treatment may need to be repeated after one week. The instructions for use should be followed carefully. Permethrin is irritant so it should be kept out of contact with the eyes.
As lice can spread easily, family and close friends should be checked for lice. The treatments for head lice cannot be used to prevent infection.
