Wesz głowowa i gnidy
Leczenie
Infestacja wszy głowowej, szczególnie u dzieci w wieku szkolnym, wymaga natychmiastowego leczenia po potwierdzeniu obecności żywych pasożytów. Terapia obejmuje preparaty farmakologiczne dostępne bez recepty, takie jak permetryna 1% (lek pierwszego wyboru), pyretryny z butoksydem piperonylu, dimetykon oraz izopropylowy myrystynian, a także silniejsze leki na receptę, w tym lotiony z alkoholem benzylowym 5%, iwermektyną 0,5%, malatonem 0,5%, spinosadem 0,9% oraz doustną iwermektyną w dawce 200 μg/kg podawaną dwukrotnie w odstępie 7-14 dni. Kluczowe jest powtórzenie leczenia po 7-10 dniach w przypadku preparatów nieskutecznych wobec gnid. Mechaniczne usuwanie wszy i gnid poprzez wyczesywanie na mokro stanowi istotne uzupełnienie terapii, wykonywane co 2-3 dni przez minimum 2 tygodnie, aż do uzyskania trzech kolejnych sesji bez żywych wszy.
- Leczenie wszy głowowej i gnid
- Leki przeciw wszom (pediculicydy)
- Metody mechaniczne usuwania wszy
- Schemat leczenia wszy głowowej
- Kiedy szukać pomocy medycznej
- Zapobieganie reinfekcji
- Przyczyny nieskuteczności leczenia
- Alternatywne metody leczenia
- Leczenie wszy głowowej u dzieci
- Ważne informacje dotyczące leczenia wszy głowowej
Leczenie wszy głowowej i gnid
Wesz głowowa i gnidy to powszechny problem, szczególnie wśród dzieci w wieku szkolnym. Leczenie infestacji wszy głowowej powinno być rozpoczęte natychmiast po wykryciu żywych pasożytów, aby zapobiec ich rozprzestrzenianiu się. Istnieje kilka metod leczenia wszy głowowej, które można podzielić na leczenie farmakologiczne i mechaniczne usuwanie.12
Leki przeciw wszom (pediculicydy)
Leki przeciw wszom głowowym są dostępne zarówno bez recepty, jak i na receptę. Należy zawsze dokładnie stosować się do instrukcji użycia tych preparatów, aby zapewnić ich skuteczność.13
Preparaty dostępne bez recepty
Wśród preparatów dostępnych bez recepty znajdują się:45
- Permetryna 1% (Nix) – syntetyczna substancja podobna do pyretryny, toksyczna dla wszy. Jest to lek pierwszego wyboru w leczeniu wszy głowowej. Permetryna zabija żywe wszy, ale nie jest w pełni skuteczna wobec jaj (gnid), dlatego zaleca się powtórzenie leczenia po 7-10 dniach.67
- Pyretryny z butoksydem piperonylu (Rid) – naturalne ekstrakty z chryzantem. Zabijają tylko żywe wszy, nie jaja, dlatego konieczne jest powtórzenie leczenia po 9-10 dniach.89
- Dimetykon (LiceMD) – działa poprzez mechaniczne uduszenie wszy, a nie przez działanie owadobójcze. Jest skuteczny przeciwko wszom, również tym opornym na tradycyjne insektycydy.1011
- Izopropylowy myrystynian (Resultz) – powoduje odwodnienie wszy prowadzące do ich śmierci.9
Preparaty na receptę
Jeśli leczenie preparatami dostępnymi bez recepty nie przynosi efektów, lekarz może przepisać silniejsze leki:412
- Lotion z alkoholem benzylowym 5% (Ulesfia) – zatwierdzona do leczenia wszy u osób w wieku od 6 miesięcy. Zabija żywe wszy, ale nie jaja, dlatego konieczne jest powtórzenie leczenia po 7 dniach.8
- Lotion z iwermektyną 0,5% (Sklice) – stosowany u osób od 6. miesiąca życia. Zabija większość wszy, nawet te świeżo wyklute, przy jednorazowym użyciu. Nie wymaga zazwyczaj wyczesywania gnid.127
- Lotion z malatonem 0,5% (Ovide) – zabija zarówno żywe wszy, jak i częściowo jaja. Może być potrzebne powtórzenie leczenia po 7-9 dniach, jeśli nadal obecne są żywe wszy.812
- Spinosad 0,9% (Natroba) – pochodna bakterii glebowych, zabija zarówno żywe wszy, jak i jaja, zwykle nie wymaga powtórnego leczenia.812
- Iwermektyna doustna – może być stosowana w przypadku opornych infestacji wszy. Podawana jest w dawce 200 μg/kg, dwukrotnie w odstępie 7-14 dni.713
Metody mechaniczne usuwania wszy
Mechaniczne usuwanie wszy i gnid to ważny element leczenia, często uzupełniający terapię farmakologiczną:12
- Wyczesywanie na mokro – metoda polegająca na nakładaniu odżywki na włosy i wyczesywaniu wszy specjalnym gęstym grzebieniem. Jest to skuteczna metoda, szczególnie gdy jest wykonywana regularnie.214
- Usuwanie gnid – po zastosowaniu leku, konieczne jest usunięcie gnid za pomocą specjalnego grzebienia. Należy to robić co 2-3 dni przez 2-3 tygodnie.115
W przypadku mokrego wyczesywania, procedurę należy powtarzać co 2-3 dni przez co najmniej 2 tygodnie, aż do momentu, gdy nie będzie widocznych żadnych żywych wszy przez 3 kolejne sesje wyczesywania.1416
Schemat leczenia wszy głowowej
Prawidłowy schemat leczenia wszy głowowej powinien uwzględniać:1012
- Pierwsze leczenie – zastosowanie odpowiedniego preparatu przeciw wszom zgodnie z instrukcją.
- Sprawdzenie skuteczności – 8-12 godzin po leczeniu sprawdzić, czy wszy są martwe lub poruszają się wolniej niż przed leczeniem.
- Usuwanie gnid – systematyczne wyczesywanie gnid specjalnym grzebieniem co 2-3 dni.
- Powtórne leczenie – w przypadku preparatów, które nie zabijają jaj, konieczne jest powtórne leczenie po 7-10 dniach (zależnie od preparatu), aby zabić nowo wyklute wszy przed złożeniem przez nie jaj.
Nie powinno się stosować więcej niż jednego preparatu przeciw wszom jednocześnie. Po leczeniu należy odczekać 1-2 dni przed umyciem włosów, aby lek mógł nadal działać.1712
Kiedy szukać pomocy medycznej
Należy skonsultować się z lekarzem w następujących przypadkach:118
- Leczenie nie przynosi efektów po 2-3 próbach
- Skóra głowy jest zaczerwieniona, tkliwa lub występują na niej strupy
- Pojawia się obrzęk węzłów chłonnych
- Występuje podejrzenie infekcji skóry głowy
- Dziecko ma mniej niż 2 lata (w tym przypadku nie zaleca się stosowania pediculicydów)
Zapobieganie reinfekcji
Aby zapobiec ponownej infestacji, należy:410
- Sprawdzić wszystkich domowników i bliskie kontakty osoby zarażonej
- Leczyć wszystkie zarażone osoby w tym samym czasie
- Wyprać w gorącej wodzie i wysuszyć w wysokiej temperaturze pościel, ręczniki i ubrania używane przez zarażoną osobę w ciągu ostatnich 2 dni
- Zdezynfekować grzebienie i szczotki w gorącej wodzie lub alkoholu
- Regularnie przeglądać włosy, aby wcześnie wykryć ewentualną reinfekcję
Nie ma potrzeby stosowania środków owadobójczych w domu ani dezynfekowania mebli, ponieważ wszy nie przeżywają długo poza skórą głowy.1920
Przyczyny nieskuteczności leczenia
Jeśli leczenie nie przynosi oczekiwanych rezultatów, może to być spowodowane:110
- Nieprawidłowym rozpoznaniem – brak żywych wszy
- Nieprzestrzeganiem zaleceń dotyczących stosowania preparatu
- Używaniem odżywki lub szamponu z odżywką przed nałożeniem leku
- Opornością wszy na dany preparat
- Reinfekcją po skutecznym leczeniu
W przypadku oporności wszy na dany preparat, należy zmienić lek na zawierający inną substancję czynną.216
Alternatywne metody leczenia
Istnieją również alternatywne metody leczenia wszy głowowej, jednak ich skuteczność nie zawsze jest potwierdzona naukowo:109
- Metoda duszenia – stosowanie gęstych substancji (wazelina, olej kokosowy, oliwa z oliwek) w celu uduszenia wszy. Brak jednoznacznych dowodów na skuteczność tej metody.13
- Gorące powietrze – urządzenia emitujące gorące powietrze (np. LouseBuster) mogą zabijać wszy i jaja poprzez odwodnienie.1022
- Olejki eteryczne – niektóre olejki eteryczne (np. olejek herbaciany, olejek lawendowy) mają właściwości przeciw wszom, jednak brak jednoznacznych dowodów na ich skuteczność.923
Nie zaleca się stosowania niebezpiecznych substancji, takich jak nafta czy benzyna, ze względu na ryzyko pożaru i toksyczność.1024
Leczenie wszy głowowej u dzieci
Leczenie wszy głowowej u dzieci wymaga szczególnej ostrożności:119
- U dzieci poniżej 2 lat nie zaleca się stosowania pediculicydów, a jedynie mechaniczne usuwanie wszy i gnid
- Zawsze należy skonsultować się z lekarzem przed rozpoczęciem leczenia u małych dzieci
- Należy ściśle przestrzegać dawkowania i zaleceń dotyczących stosowania preparatów
- Niektóre preparaty mają ograniczenia wiekowe, które należy uwzględnić przy wyborze leczenia
Dziecko może wrócić do szkoły po rozpoczęciu leczenia wszy, nawet jeśli nadal obecne są gnidy (które same w sobie nie powodują rozprzestrzeniania się wszy).2526
Ważne informacje dotyczące leczenia wszy głowowej
Podsumowując, w leczeniu wszy głowowej i gnid należy pamiętać o następujących kwestiach:1102
- Leczenie należy rozpocząć tylko po potwierdzeniu obecności żywych wszy
- Można stosować preparaty dostępne bez recepty lub na receptę, w zależności od sytuacji
- Należy dokładnie przestrzegać instrukcji stosowania preparatów
- Mechaniczne usuwanie gnid jest istotnym elementem leczenia
- W przypadku braku skuteczności leczenia należy rozważyć zmianę preparatu lub konsultację lekarską
- Wszystkie zarażone osoby w gospodarstwie domowym powinny być leczone jednocześnie
- Regularne kontrolowanie włosów pozwala wcześnie wykryć i leczyć infestację
Przy prawidłowym leczeniu, infestacja wszy głowowej może być skutecznie wyeliminowana, a ryzyko ponownego zarażenia znacząco zmniejszone.123
Kolejne rozdziały
Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.
Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.
Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Treatment of Head Lice | Lice | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/lice/treatment/index.html
You can treat lice with either over-the-counter or prescription medications. […] Follow all provided instructions when using lice medication. […] Talk to a healthcare provider if you think re-treatment is necessary. […] Treat head lice if you have an active infestation. […] You can treat head lice with medications (pediculicides) that are either over-the-counter or by prescription. […] Some medicines kill lice and eggs; retreatment is usually not required for these. […] Other medicines kill lice but are not effective at killing eggs and so retreatment is recommended. […] Medications are generally safe and effective when used correctly. […] Consult your healthcare provider before treating young children. […] If your medication kills both lice and eggs, then retreatment may not be necessary.
- #1 Treatment of Head Lice | Lice | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/lice/treatment/index.html
Treat again after all eggs (nits) have hatched but before new eggs are produced. […] If your medication kills lice but does not kill eggs, treat again about a week after the first treatment (7 9 days depending on the drug). […] Use the lice medicine as directed on the box or label. […] If you notice a few lice still moving slowly 8 12 hours after treatment, you do not need to reapply the medicine. […] If, 8 12 hours after treatment, you do not find any dead lice, or the lice seem as active as before treatment, the medicine may not be working. […] Use nit combs to remove nits and lice from the hair shaft. […] After each treatment, check hair and remove nits and lice every 2 3 days for the next 2 3 weeks. […] Follow your medication’s instructions for retreatment. […] Do not use a combination shampoo/conditioner, or conditioner, before using lice medicine.
- #1 Treatment of Head Lice | Lice | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/lice/treatment/index.html
The following reasons may cause treatment for head lice to fail: Misdiagnosis, Recent application of combination shampoo/conditioner or conditioner to hair, Not following treatment instructions, Head lice resisting the medication, Reinfestation after successful treatment. […] The CDC does not have scientific evidence that suffocating head lice with mayonnaise, olive oil, margarine, butter, or similar substances is an effective form of treatment.
- #2 Head lice and nitshttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/head-lice-and-nits/
Head lice can make your head feel itchy. […] The only way to be sure someone has head lice is by finding live lice. […] You can do this by combing their hair with a special fine-toothed comb (detection comb). You can buy these online or at pharmacies. […] Treat head lice as soon as you spot them. You can treat head lice without seeing a GP. […] Check everyone you live with, or have close contact with, and start treating anyone who has head lice on the same day. […] Lice and nits can be removed by wet combing. […] You can buy a special fine-toothed comb (detection comb) online or from pharmacies to remove head lice and nits. […] If wet combing has not worked or is not suitable, you could try a medicated lotion or spray. These kill head lice in all types of hair, and you can buy them from pharmacies, supermarkets or online.
- #3 Patient education: Head lice (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/head-lice-beyond-the-basics/print
Head lice are usually spread from one person to another through casual contact. Although head lice can be unpleasant, there are effective treatment options available. It is important to find and treat lice quickly to avoid spreading them to others. […] There are several options for getting rid of head lice, including creams and liquids, combing, and oral medicine (pills). It is important to follow directions carefully to be sure that the treatment works. […] A topical insecticide (pediculicide) is a substance, usually a lotion or gel, that is applied to the scalp to kill lice. Available insecticides include: […] Only one insecticide treatment should be used at a time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the insecticide carefully. […] Use of a nit comb to remove lice and nits after treatment may help to decrease risk for reinfestation.
- #3 Patient education: Head lice (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/head-lice-beyond-the-basics/print
A few live lice may be seen 8 to 12 hours after using an insecticide, and there is no need to immediately reapply the insecticide if they are moving slower than they were prior to treatment. […] Wet-combing is a way to remove lice from the hair with careful and repeated combing. It is a good option for treating very young children or if you want to avoid using insecticides. […] A medicine taken by mouth called ivermectin might be prescribed for people whose lice are resistant to topical insecticide treatment. […] Other products, such as products containing topical dimethicone (a nonpesticide, silicone-based liquid also known as „dimethicone”), are marketed for the treatment of head lice in some regions. […] Studies have examined lotions and other materials (olive oil, butter, mayonnaise, petroleum jelly [Vaseline]) that are applied to the head, and then allowed to dry, with the goal of suffocating lice. However, lice are difficult to suffocate; wet-combing probably works as well and is less messy. […] Because there is no evidence that these treatments are predictably effective, we do not recommend any of these treatments.
- #4 Lice – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374404
A health care provider may diagnose head lice after finding a live young or adult louse in the person’s hair or on the scalp, or after seeing one or more nits on hair shafts found within 1/4 inch (6 millimeters) of the scalp. […] Use drugs that treat lice only as directed. Applying too much can cause red, irritated skin. […] Head lice treatment may involve: […] Shampoos containing permethrin (Nix) are usually the first option used to combat lice. Permethrin is a synthetic version of pyrethrin, which is a chemical compound extracted from the chrysanthemum flower. Permethrin is toxic to lice. Follow the directions closely when using this product. […] A lotion containing ivermectin (Sklice) also is available without a prescription. Ivermectin is toxic to lice. The lotion is approved for use in adults and children age 6 months or older. You can apply it once to dry hair and then rinse with water after 10 minutes.
- #4 Lice – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374404
Don’t repeat the ivermectin treatment without talking to your health care provider first. Possible side effects include eye irritation or redness, dandruff, dry skin, and a burning sensation at the application site. […] In some locations, lice have grown resistant to the ingredients in nonprescription treatments. If nonprescription treatments don’t work, your health care provider can prescribe shampoos or lotions that contain different ingredients. […] Ivermectin (Stromectol) is available by prescription as a tablet taken by mouth. The oral drug effectively treats lice with two doses, eight days apart. This drug is typically used when other treatments haven’t been effective. […] Malathion is a prescription drug that you apply to the hair and then rub into the hair and scalp. […] Spinosad (Natroba) is a newer prescription treatment for head lice. You can apply it to dry hair and the scalp for 10 minutes and then rinse with water. The treatment doesn’t usually need to be repeated. But it can be used again after seven days if live lice are still present.
- #4 Lice – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374404
- #5 How Head Lice Is Treatedhttps://www.verywellhealth.com/head-lice-treatment-2633638
It can be distressing to discover head lice. However, you can follow some simple steps to effectively treat the lice at home. For particularly stubborn cases, you can check with your healthcare provider to see if you need a prescription. […] This article discusses head lice treatments, including over-the-counter and prescription medication. It also looks at-home remedies and complementary medicine. […] The first-line treatment of head lice is using an anti-lice shampoo, such as Nix or Rid. You can buy these at the drugstore or online. Known as pediculicides, they will kill the adult lice outright, but they don’t kill nits (lice eggs). […] You usually have to re-treat with an anti-lice shampoo seven to 10 days after an initial application. This kills any newly hatched head lice and breaks this lice life cycle. Many experts recommend doing the second head lice treatment on the ninth day.
- #6https://www.health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases/head-lice
Treatment involves a lotion applied to the head of the person and washing of the person’s pillowslip. […] Concentrate on the head. No treatment kills all of the eggs so treatment must involve 2 applications 7 days apart. […] If the insecticide has worked, the lice will be dead within 20 minutes. Treat again in 7 days using the same product to ensure proper treatment. […] If the lice are not dead, the treatment has not worked and the lice may be resistant to the product and all products containing the same active compound. […] Wash off the product and treat as soon as possible using either a product containing a different active compound or the conditioner and comb method. […] Any head lice product can cause a reaction and should be used with care by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children less than 12 months old and people with allergies, asthma or open wounds on the scalp.
- #7 Lice and Scabies: Treatment Update | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0515/p635.html
First-line pharmacologic treatment for pediculosis is permethrin 1% lotion or shampoo. […] Noninsecticidal agents, including dimethicone and isopropyl myristate, show promise in the treatment of pediculosis. […] A no-nit policy is not recommended for schools and day cares because nits alone do not indicate an active infestation. […] Permethrin 1% lotion or shampoo (Nix) is first-line treatment for pediculosis. […] Nonovicidal therapies for pediculosis should be applied twice, seven to 10 days apart, to fully eradicate lice. […] Oral ivermectin (Stromectol) should be reserved for patients with scabies who do not improve with permethrin 5% cream (Elimite). […] Pharmacologic treatment of head lice infestation is focused on three general mechanisms: neurotoxicity resulting in paralysis of the lice (insecticidal treatments), suffocation via coating the lice, or dissolution of the wax covering on the exoskeleton.
- #7 Lice and Scabies: Treatment Update | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0515/p635.html
Insecticidal agents that are neurotoxic to lice include permethrin 1% lotion or shampoo (Nix), pyrethrins 0.3%/piperonyl butoxide 4% shampoo (Rid), malathion 0.5% lotion (Ovide), spinosad 0.9% suspension (Natroba), ivermectin 0.5% lotion (Sklice), and oral ivermectin (Stromectol; off-label use). […] Permethrin 1% is recommended as first-line treatment for head lice. […] Noninsecticidal agents that rely on suffocation or exoskeleton dissolution include benzyl alcohol 5% lotion (Ulesfia), dimethicone solution (Nix Ultra, Lice MD), and isopropyl myristate solution (Resultz). […] The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends dimethicone solution and isopropyl myristate solution as second-line agents if permethrin fails after two treatments. […] A key to formulating an effective treatment regimen is recognizing the effectiveness of available treatments in destroying viable eggs because this dictates if retreatment is necessary.
- #7 Lice and Scabies: Treatment Update | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0515/p635.html
Malathion, spinosad, and topical ivermectin are considered ovicidal, and they will kill both live lice and eggs in one treatment. […] Treatment of pubic lice is similar to that of head lice. […] The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends permethrin 1% lotion or pyrethrins 0.3%/piperonyl butoxide 4% shampoo as the first-line agent, and malathion 0.5% lotion or oral ivermectin as an alternative. […] Permethrin 5% cream (Elimite) is the first-line treatment for scabies. […] Treatment with oral ivermectin (200 mcg per kg, two doses 14 days apart) is an option for scabies according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- #8 Clinical Care of Head Lice | Lice | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/lice/hcp/clinical-care/index.html
Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to effectively treat head lice. […] If the medication you use does not kill nits (lice eggs), then retreatment is recommended. […] Pyrethrins can only kill live lice, not unhatched eggs (nits). Treat a second time 9-10 days after the first treatment to kill any newly hatched lice before they can produce new eggs. […] Permethrin kills live lice but not unhatched eggs. Permethrin can kill newly hatched lice for several days after treatment. You may need to treat again on day nine to kill any newly hatched lice before they can produce new eggs. […] Benzyl alcohol kills lice but does not kill eggs. Treat again after 7 days to kill any newly hatched lice before they can produce new eggs. […] Ivermectin lotion, 0.5% kills lice and, although it does not kill eggs, appears to prevent nymphs (newly hatched lice) from surviving.
- #8 Clinical Care of Head Lice | Lice | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/lice/hcp/clinical-care/index.html
Malathion is pediculicidal (kills live lice) and partially ovicidal (kills some lice eggs). A second treatment is recommended if live lice still are present 7-9 days after treatment. […] Spinosad is derived from soil bacteria. Since it kills live lice as well as unhatched eggs, retreatment is usually not needed. […] Lindane is effective at treating lice but is no longer available in the United States or Canada due to its risk for severe side effects. […] Do not use extra amounts of any lice medication unless instructed to do so by your physician and pharmacist. […] Do not treat a person infested with lice more than 2-3 times with the same medication if it isn’t successful. […] The AAP recommends rinsing all topical pediculicides from the hair over a sink, rather than in the shower or bath to limit skin exposure.
- #9 Head lice | Caring for kidshttps://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/head_lice
Head lice can be treated in a variety of ways: […] Insecticides are chemicals that kill insects. In Canada, 2 insecticides are approved to treat head lice: pyrethrin (found in RC shampoo + conditioner) and permethrin (Nix creme rinse or Kwellada-P creme rinse). […] Pyrethrin and permethrin are safe when used on humans over 2 months old. You do not need a prescription. Over time, head lice have become resistant to some of the chemicals used to kill them, so some products may be less effective than they used to be. But they are still worth trying. […] How to apply insecticides: Follow package directions carefully. Don’t leave the shampoo or rinse in the hair longer than directed. Rinse hair with cool water after the treatment. It’s best to rinse over a sink, not in the bath or shower, so that other body parts don’t come in contact with the product. Repeat the treatment after 7 to 10 days, in case new lice hatched from the nits.
- #9 Head lice | Caring for kidshttps://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/head_lice
Non-insecticides: Isopropyl myristate/cyclomethicone (Resultz) is approved for use in Canada, but it should only be used in children 4 years of age and older. It dehydrates the lice and they die. Apply to a dry scalp and rinse with warm water after 10 minutes. Repeat after 1 week. […] Silicone oil dimeticone (NYDA) is effective against live lice, nymphs and nits. It is not recommended for children under 2 years old. A second treatment is recommended after 8 to 10 days. […] Benzyl alcohol lotion 5% (Ulesfia) is effective against live lice, but a second treatment is recommended after 9 days. […] These products are usually more expensive than insecticides. It is not known for sure whether they work better. […] Some people suggest home remedies such as mayonnaise, petroleum jelly, olive oil, vinegar or margarine. Although these products may make it hard for lice to breathe, they probably won’t kill them.
- #9 Head lice | Caring for kidshttps://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/head_lice
There is little evidence that wet combing (removing lice by combing wet hair with a fine-tooth comb) works all on its own. […] There is no evidence that products such as tea tree oil or aromatherapy work to treat head lice. […] Ivermectin is a drug that can be taken by mouth or used as a cream, but it is not approved for use in Canada. […] Never use gasoline or kerosene. These products can be extremely dangerous.
- #10 Head lice – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/head-lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356186
In some regions, lice have developed resistance to nonprescription medications. Nonprescription treatment also may fail because of incorrect use, such as not repeating the treatment at an appropriate time. […] If the correct use of a nonprescription treatment has failed, your health care provider may recommend a prescription treatment. […] If you prefer not to use a medication for treating head lice, you may consider a home treatment. However, there’s little to no clinical evidence that home treatments are effective. […] Combing wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb may remove lice and some nits. Studies show that wet-combing results vary. […] A number of household products are used to treat head lice. These products are thought to deprive the lice of air when generous amounts are applied to the hair, covered with a shower cap and left on overnight.
- #10 Head lice – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/head-lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356186
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, the gold standard for diagnosing head lice is to identify a live nymph or adult louse. […] Your health care provider will likely recommend a medication available without a prescription that kills lice and some of the nits. These medications may not kill recently laid eggs. Therefore, an appropriately timed second treatment is usually necessary to kill nymphs after they hatch but before they become adult lice. […] Some studies suggest that re-treating 7 to 9 days after the first treatment is the ideal time for a second treatment, but other re-treatment schedules exist. Ask your health care provider for written instructions for a recommended treatment schedule. […] Permethrin doesn’t kill nits, and treatment needs to be repeated 9 to 10 days after first application.
- #10 Head lice – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/head-lice/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356186
However, it’s unclear if these treatments are effective. […] Another option is a machine that uses one application of hot air to kill head lice and their eggs through dehydration. […] Flammable products, such as kerosene or gasoline, should never be used to kill lice or to remove nits. […] As a precaution, you may clean items that the affected person has used in the previous two days.
- #11 Head Lice Management Guidelines–UC IPMhttps://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/head-lice/pest-notes/
Dimethicone is effective, safe, and affordable and can also be used in all age groups. […] Treatment with pesticides can be harmful to human health and the environment and is often not the most effective solution for head lice. […] Select insecticidal shampoo products carefully. Always read the label carefully and follow the directions. […] If live lice are found a day after treatment, suspect that resistance is occurring and discontinue use of that product. […] An effective treatment protocol for treating heads of hair that cannot be combed include using a dimethicone-based product. A series of 3 dimethicone treatments made 5 to 6 days apart can reliably eliminate lice without the need to comb nits out.
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
If the at-home treatment does not work or this seems more than you can handle, you should see a dermatologist for treatment. Your dermatologist may recommend a product that you can buy without a prescription or a prescription medicine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the following prescription medicines to treat head lice: […] Benzyl alcohol lotion: Approved to treat head lice in people 6 months of age and older, this medicine is applied to dry hair. When using this treatment, you want to saturate the scalp and hair. After 10 minutes, it’s time to thoroughly rinse off the medicine. Because benzyl alcohol kills the lice but not their eggs, it’s important to repeat the treatment in seven days. […] Ivermectin lotion: Approved to treat head lice in people 6 months of age and older, this medicine offers convenience. Invermectin treats most head lice with just one use and without the need to comb nits out of the hair.
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
Keep all electrical appliances that produce heat turned off. Using this medicine while a blow dryer, iron, curling iron, or space heater is running nearby can start a fire. […] When used as directed, malathion is safe and effective. It can irritate the skin a bit as it works. Some people get dry hair or their skin can burn or sting. These side effects are temporary. […] Spinosad suspension: This medicine is approved to treat head lice in people 6 months of age and older. It has been found to be safe and effective when used as directed. […] Like Ivermectin lotion: […] Most people need to apply this medicine only once […] Nit combing is not necessary […] You will need to check the scalp seven days after treatment. If crawling lice are seen be sure to tell your dermatologist. You may need to repeat the treatment.
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
Malathion lotion: Approved to treat people ages 6 years of age and older, malathion works by paralyzing and killing the lice and their eggs. This is very potent medicine, so be sure that you: […] Keep the medicine away from everyone’s eyes. If the medicine gets in someone’s eyes, flush the eyes right away with lots of water for several minutes. […] Do NOT smoke while using this medicine. If anyone in the room smokes while this medicine is being used, a fire can start. Leave cigarettes, cigars, and other things that you can smoke in another room. […] Keep the medicine away from flames. You want to use malathion in a room without a stove or fireplace. Because malathion can easily cause a fire, even unlit lighters and camp stoves should NOT be in the room where you’ll use malathion. If you’re using malathion outdoors, be sure a camp fire is NOT burning.
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
Seven to nine days after the first treatment […] Retreat as recommended on the package. Retreatment is generally recommended with all products you can buy without a prescription. Retreatment is usually done seven to nine days after the first treatment. The lice shampoos often are more successful at killing the adult lice than the nits, so retreatment helps to kill any surviving lice that hatched after the first treatment. No approved treatment for head lice can kill all the eggs during the first treatment. […] After applying the second treatment, comb through the hair with the lice comb. […] Wait two days to wash the hair. […] Continue to comb through the hair with the lice comb once a day. Do this for two weeks, checking for lice and nits. […] When to see a dermatologist about head lice
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
Use the amount stated on the product. Using more can be harmful. […] Use the lice comb that comes with the shampoo. The teeth on a lice comb are closer together than the teeth on a regular comb. Placing the teeth closer together makes it easier to remove the lice and their nits. […] Look at the hair 8 to 12 hours after treatment. If the lice seem as active as they were before the treatment, the medicine may not be working. Do not treat again. Talk with your dermatologist. A different lice medicine may be necessary. […] The next day […] If the medicine seems to be working, you’ll want to: […] Wait two days to wash your hair. This lets the medicated product continue to work. […] Continue to comb through the hair with the lice comb once a day. Doing this for two to three weeks helps to ensure that you get rid of the lice.
- #12 Head lice: Diagnosis and treatmenthttps://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/head-lice-treatment
May be prescribed if other treatments fail or cannot be used […] Lindane shampoo: This medicine has been approved by the FDA to treat head lice. Approved to treat head lice, this treatment is prescribed when other treatments do not work. It is essential to use lindane shampoo only as directed. It can be toxic when misused. […] Outcome […] Two treatments (spaced seven to nine days apart) often get rid of head lice. If your child or someone else in your family still has head lice after a few weeks, it means that the treatments did not work or the person got lice again. Make an appointment to see a dermatologist for help getting rid of the head lice. With proper treatment, it is possible to get rid of head lice.
- #13 Head lice (nits) | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/head-lice-nits
Using the conditioner and comb method once each week will help your family control head lice. […] The 2 preferred treatment options available for initially treating head lice are the conditioner and comb method, and the use of an insecticide. […] If you choose not to use an insecticide, the comb and conditioner method described above can be used every second day until no live lice have been found for 10 days. […] If the initial treatments have failed and live lice are still being removed with the conditioner and comb treatment, see your doctor for a referral to a dermatologist for specialist treatment. […] A dermatologist may prescribe ivermectin. This is a tablet taken twice, 7 days apart. It is highly effective in treating head lice. […] No topical insecticide treatment kills 100% of the eggs, so treatment must involve 2 applications, 7 days apart. (This kills the lice that hatched from the eggs that didn’t die the first time around.)
- #14 Head lice and nitshttps://www2.hse.ie/conditions/head-lice-nits/
Remove head lice by wet combing as soon as you spot them. You do not need to see your GP. […] You can remove lice and nits by wet combing. Try this before anything else. […] You can buy a special fine-toothed comb (detection comb) online or from pharmacies to remove head lice and nits. […] Wet comb your child’s hair every 3 to 4 days for at least 2 weeks. You can stop when no lice are seen for 3 combing sessions in a row. […] Ask a pharmacist for advice if you’ve tried wet combing for 2 weeks, but your child still has head lice. […] They may recommend a head lice treatment such as a lotion or spray. These kill head lice. You can buy them from pharmacies, supermarkets or online. […] Head lice should die within a day of treatment. Lotions and sprays come with a comb to remove dead lice and eggs. […] You may need to repeat some treatments after a week to kill any newly hatched lice. […] If lotions or sprays do not work, speak to a pharmacist about other treatments.
- #15 Head Lice: Overview, Treatment Options and Prevention | Nationwide Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/head-lice
To treat your childs lice, they may need: Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription lice medicine. […] Your childs doctor or health care provider can recommend a shampoo, rinse, or lotion to kill lice or help with itching. […] A lot of head lice shampoos are insecticides. That means they have chemicals in them that kill lice. […] After using the medicine, check for lice again in 8 to 12 hours. Use a nit comb to remove dead lice and nits. […] Keep checking hair and using the nit comb every 2 to 3 days for 2 to 3 weeks. Do this until there are no more lice or nits in the hair. […] The comb-out method lets you check for nits and lice or remove them after treatment. This method alone may not get rid of lice. Head lice medicine is also needed. […] After each medicine treatment, use the comb-out method every 2 to 3 days for 2 to 3 weeks to remove nits and eggs.
- #16 Head lice & nits: children & teens | Raising Children Networkhttps://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/head-lice
You’ll need to treat your child again about one week after the first lice treatment, to kill any eggs that have hatched and become mature lice since the first treatment. […] Wet-combing treatment This head lice treatment involves combing wet hair with a special fine-toothed, metal lice comb and hair conditioner. […] Repeated wet-combing is a very good head lice treatment. Comb every 2-3 days for 2 weeks, until a full combing doesn’t show any eggs or lice on the entire scalp. […] Treatment doesn’t always work, especially the first time you do it. […] If your child has been treated for head lice more than 3 times in a year, it’s a good idea to talk to your GP about other treatments. […] Children who keep getting head lice can be prescribed a tablet medication called ivermectin, which is very good at killing lice.
- #17 How does lice shampoo work? How to use it and morehttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-does-lice-shampoo-work
It is important for people to only use lice shampoo in cases where they have noticed live lice crawling in the hair or are otherwise certain that the person receiving the treatment has head lice. […] Treatment with lice shampoo typically involves four stages. […] Many lice shampoos are available, each with slightly different methods. It is important that people familiarise themselves with their chosen products treatment process. […] People will also need to do the following when using lice shampoo: […] Some lice treatments may irritate the skin. […] People will need to avoid washing their hair for 48 hours after lice treatment. This allows the medication to continue working. […] Instructions for OTC shampoos may recommend completing another treatment 7-9 days after the first. This is because lice shampoos mainly kill adult lice, so the extra week allows any nits to hatch.
- #18 Head Lice: Signs, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10824-head-lice
Another technique is to apply hand lotion or conditioner to your childs wet hair for two minutes, then comb the lotion or conditioner out with a fine-toothed comb. Repeat every few days for two to three weeks after you last saw a live louse. These and other home remedies might work best when combined with medicated shampoo, cream or lotion treatment. […] Call your childs healthcare provider if treatments arent working or if your child has signs of an infection.
- #19 Head Lice (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealthhttps://kidshealth.org/en/parents/head-lice.html
There’s no need to buy electronic combs that claim to kill lice or make nits easier to remove. […] Though petroleum jelly, mayonnaise, or olive oil are sometimes used to try to suffocate head lice, these treatments may not work. […] Don’t use pesticide sprays or hire a pest control company to try to get rid of the lice; these can be harmful. […] If your child has lice 2 weeks after you started treatment or if your child’s scalp looks infected, call your doctor. […] There are professional lice treatment centers that remove lice and nits for a fee. These services are effective but often costly. […] Dealing with head lice can be frustrating, but be patient. Follow the treatments and prevention tips from your doctor, and soon your family will be lice-free.
- #19 Head Lice (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealthhttps://kidshealth.org/en/parents/head-lice.html
Head lice are a common problem, especially for kids. It’s best to treat head lice right away to prevent them from spreading. […] The two main ways to treat lice are: medicine and removing by hand. […] Medicated shampoos, cream rinses, and lotions are available that kill lice. These may be over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medicines. If you think a treatment isn’t working, talk to your doctor or a pharmacist. They might recommend a different one. […] Removing lice and nits by hand can finish the job if the medicine did not completely rid your child of lice. It is also an option for anyone who doesn’t want to use an insecticide. […] To do this, run a fine-tooth comb through your child’s wet hair one section at a time. After each comb-through, wipe the comb on a wet paper towel to inspect for lice or nits.
- #20 About Lice and Their Control | US EPAhttps://www.epa.gov/ipm/about-lice-and-their-control
Head lice infestations do requirement treatment and can be prevented. Follow these principles in your treatment plan: […] Avoid pesticide-based shampoos. […] Shampoo hair with normal shampoo. […] Use a fine-toothed, good quality metal comb. […] Dont use environmental sprays for lice – they are unnecessary and can pose a health risk if used improperly. […] Vacuum carpets and padded furniture to remove hairs with attached nits and any lice that crawl off the infested person. […] Put bed linens, pillows, stuffed animals and similar items in a dryer for 30 minutes on high heat to kill both live lice and nits. […] Dont treat family pets for lice with insecticidal shampoo. It is potentially harmful (to both humans and pets). […] Dont use head lice treatments as a preventive measure. Head lice cant be safely or effectively prevented by shampooing with either chemical or alternative treatments. […] Practice early detection, by making weekly head checks with a good quality comb. Early detection and removal of any live lice or nits can keep head lice problems to a minimum.
- #21https://myhealth.alberta.ca/alberta/Pages/how-to-treat-head-lice.aspx
You only need to treat hair when you find live head lice. You do not need to treat the hair if you find only nits. If you have questions, ask your pharmacist. […] Head lice shampoos, cream rinses, and sprays have been tested and are safe and effective treatments for head lice. You can buy them at any pharmacy and dont need a prescription. If youre not sure which one is best for your needs, talk to your pharmacist. […] Read and follow the directions on the head lice shampoo, cream rinse, or spray. For the treatment to work, you must follow the instructions exactly, including if the hair has to be wet or dry, and when to treat a second time. […] A second treatment with head lice shampoo, cream rinse, or spray is almost always needed 7 to 10 days after the first treatment to kill newly hatched lice. If youre not sure if a second treatment is needed, talk to your pharmacist.
- #22 Head Lice: Common Childhood Condition – Seattle Children’shttps://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/head-lice/
You can remove lice with the wet combing method and/or using a product that suffocates the lice, like a special gel. […] A machine called the LouseBuster uses hot air to kill lice. […] To keep lice from spreading to others or coming back: Wash all clothing, bedding and towels used in the last 3 days by anyone with lice. […] Call your child’s healthcare provider if your child still has lice after 2 weeks of treatment, if their scalp is infected or if you have questions.
- #23 The 9 Best Lice Treatments, According to Expertshttps://www.health.com/condition/skin-conditions/these-are-the-20-best-lice-treatments-according-to-experts
Lice infestations can be a nuisance, but fortunately, there are various treatments available to eliminate these pesky parasites. From over-the-counter solutions, prescriptions, and mechanical removal methods, our comprehensive guide aims to provide you with a range of options to tackle lice infestations head-on. […] Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products: OTC lice treatments include shampoos, lotions, and creams with insecticides like permethrin or pyrethrin. These kill lice and nits, but some lice strains may resist them. […] Prescription Medications: Stronger medications may be needed for resistant lice strains. Topical treatments with ivermectin, malathion, or benzyl alcohol can be effective. Prescription treatments may have more side effects and should be used when necessary. […] Natural Remedies: Some prefer natural remedies to avoid chemicals. These include essential oils (like tea tree, lavender, neem) and other substances (like coconut oil, vinegar). Natural remedies are safer, but may not always work against lice.
- #24https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/from-insects-animals/Pages/signs-of-lice.aspx
Never use dangerous products like gasoline or kerosene or medicines made for use on animals! Also, do not use home remedies, such as petroleum jelly, mayonnaise, tub margarine, essential oils or olive oil, because no studies prove they work. […] Check with your child’s doctor before beginning any treatment. See chart, below, for a list of head lice medicines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. […] You may want to wash your child’s clothes, towels, hats, and bed linens in hot water and dry on high heat if they were used within 2 days before head lice were found and treated. […] Do not spray pesticides in your home. They can expose your family to dangerous chemicals and are not needed when you treat your child’s scalp and hair properly. […] All household members and close contacts should be checked and treated for head lice if necessary.
- #25 Treatment of human lice – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treatment_of_human_lice
Many of the pediculicides in the market are either not fully effective or are ineffective when they are used according to the instructions. […] Resistance of head lice to insecticides such as lindane, malathion, phenothrin and permethrin has been reported. […] A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found that the mean frequency of pyrethroid resistance of lice was 77% globally, and even 100% in several countries. […] Ivermectin by mouth has been shown to reduce levels of louse infestation. […] Agents approved by the FDA for treatment of pediculosis include abametapir, topical ivermectin lotion, lindane, malathion, permethrin, and piperonyl butoxide with pyrethrins. […] A standard home blow dryer will kill 96.7% of eggs with proper technique. […] A special fine-toothed comb that can pick out lice is used.
- #26 Head Lice – Pediatrician in {Cincinnati}, {OH} | {West Side Pediatrics}https://wspcincy.com/head-lice
Head lice can be treated at home. […] With careful treatment, all lice and nits (lice eggs) are usually killed. […] Buy some anti-lice creme rinse (such as Nix) and follow package directions. […] First, wash the hair with a regular shampoo. […] Pour 2 ounces (full bottle or 60 mL) of Nix into damp hair. […] Leave the shampoo on for a full 10 minutes. […] Repeat the anti-lice shampoo in 9 days. […] Nit removal is not necessary. […] Only live lice can spread lice to another child. […] Your child can return to school after 1 treatment with the anti-lice shampoo. […] A child with nits doesn’t need to miss any school or child care. […] With 2 treatments, all lice and nits should be killed. […] Go to your drugstore and buy Cetaphil cleanser in the soap department. […] To cure your child of lice, repeat this process twice in 1 and 2 weeks.