Children's Health

Home treatment with nonprescription medicines can usually get rid of lice. These medicines include:

• Permethrin 1% creme rinse (such as Nix).
• Pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide hair products (such as A-200, Pronto, and Rid).

If nonprescription methods are not working, a stronger medicine may be needed. Your doctor may prescribe a more concentrated (5% instead of 1% nonprescription) form of permethrin (Elimite) or a different medicine.

Many doctors recommend using a lotion or shampoo to kill the eggs and lice. In Britain, where lice have become resistant to medicated lotions and shampoos, one study found that using special fine-toothed combs with a conditioner helped get rid of head lice.² You may choose to remove the eggs through combing to improve your or your child's appearance. Cleaning combs, brushes, clothing, and other objects can help prevent lice from spreading to other members of your household.