Pyrethrins; Piperonyl Butoxide mousse

July 17, 2018

Pyrethrins; Piperonyl Butoxide mousse

What is this medicine?

PYRETHINS; PIPERONYL BUTOXIDE (pi RETH rins; PI per on il byoo TOX ide) is used to treat lice. It acts by destroying the lice, but it does not destroy their eggs (nits). This medicine may be used to treat head lice, body lice, or pubic lice.

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. Special care may be needed.

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

  • breathing problems

  • skin burning, irritation

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

  • dry, itchy, red skin

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. 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). 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:

  • asthma

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to pyrethrins, piperonyl butoxide, other medicines, foods, dyes, ragweed, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Lice infections can cause itching and irritation. This medicine may cause more itching for a short time after use. This does not mean that the medicine did not work.

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 the house should be checked for lice. Treat everyone who is infected. For cases of pubic lice, sexual partners should be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection.

To prevent reinfection or spreading of the infection, the following steps should be taken: Machine wash all clothing, bedding, towels, and washcloths in very hot water and dry them using the hot cycle of a dryer for at least 20 minutes. Clothing or bedding that cannot be washed should be dry cleaned or sealed in an airtight plastic bag for 4 weeks. Shampoo any wigs or hairpieces. You should also wash all hairbrushes and combs in very hot soapy water (above 130 F) for 5 to 10 minutes. Do not share your hairbrushes or combs with other people. Wash all toys in very hot water (above 130 F) for 5 to 10 minutes or seal in an airtight plastic bag for 4 weeks. Also, clean the house or room by vacuuming furniture, rugs, and floors.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018