Ivermectin available for treatment of head lice in children

A topical treatment of head lice infestations in patients aged 6 months or older is now available by prescription in the US, according to Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi.

Ivermectin (Sklice Lotion, 0.5%, Sanofi Pasteur) was developed by Topaz Pharmaceuticals, which was acquired by Sanofi Pasteur in October 2011. In phase 3 trials, the lotion was proven to resolve most head lice infestations with one, 10-minute application. Two weeks after treatment, 71% to 76% of patients who were treated with the product were lice-free and fewer than 1% experienced side effects. The most common adverse reactions included eye irritation, eye redness or soreness, burning sensation of the skin and dandruff.

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic agent derived from a soil bacterium that causes paralysis and death in certain parasites.

The lotion should be used in the context of an overall lice management program, which includes

Washing with hot water or dry-cleaning all recently worn clothing, hats, used bedding and towels.

Washing hair products such as combs, brushes and hair clips in hot water.

Using a fine-tooth comb or nit comb to remove dead lice and nits.

According to the CDC, cases of head lice have been increasing in the US, affecting approximately 6 to 12 million children aged 3 to 11 years.

For more information on head lice treatment visit http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/.