Benzyl Alcohol Topical Lotion

What is this medicine?

BENZYL ALCOHOL (BEN zil AL kuh hawl) lotion is used to treat lice of the hair and scalp. It acts by destroying the lice. It does not destroy their eggs; a second treatment is needed 7 days after the first treatment.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the product label. Do not wash hair with conditioner or a combination shampoo-conditioner immediately before applying this medicine. Follow product-specific instructions for length of application and product removal. All products should be rinsed from the hair over a sink or tub to limit skin exposure; do not use hot water. In general, do not re-wash the hair for 1 to 2 days after use.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 6 months for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• eye or skin irritation

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• itching

• redness

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss your second dose, use it as soon as you can. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• an unusual or allergic reaction to benzyl alcohol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• breast feeding

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

All recently worn clothing, hats, used bedding, and towels should be washed in hot water or dry-cleaned. Combs, brushes, and hair clips should also be washed in hot water.

This medicine gets rid of lice, but it does not get rid of their eggs. A second treatment is needed 7 days after the first treatment.

Head lice can be spread from one person to another by direct contact with clothing, hats, scarves, bedding, towels, washcloths, hairbrushes, and combs. All members of your household should be examined for head lice and should receive treatment if they are found to be infected. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor or health care professional.