Is Application Of Lindane Lotion In The Hair Advisable?

Posted on Fri, 16 Dec 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 Answered on

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : can one use lindane lotion in hair if one has scabies I know it can effect the brain but I came down with scabies 2 months ago and use permethrin for 4 weeks in a row im been itching for 2 months so im going to ask for lindane

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
use permethrin

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
Lindane was used in past to treat head lice however it's an obselete treatment.
Lindane can cause severe irritation.
Presently 5 % permethrin lotion to be applied to scalp and washed off after half hour is the treatment of choice.
A single application is sufficient.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (3 hours later)

I use permethrin 4 times every week it didn't work I been itching for 2 months

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Ivermectin

Detailed Answer:
You can try ivermectin 12 mg tablet after consulting your treating doctor.
A single dose is sufficient.
Lindane won't be helpful.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj