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ivermectin non-prescription

Generic
Used for Lice
Used for Lice

Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) works great for treating head lice and doesn't require any nit combing after using. It was previously available only by prescription, but you can now get it over the counter.

Last reviewed on February 13, 2022
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What is Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)?

What is Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) used for?

  • Head lice

How Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) works

Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) is an antiparasitic lotion. It kills lice and their eggs (nits) on your scalp and hair by causing damage to their nerves and muscles. This paralyzes them and causes them to die.

Are you looking for information on Soolantra (ivermectin cream) or Stromectol (ivermectin tablet) instead?
When does Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSklice
Drug ClassAntiparasitic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$215.66(save 75.45%)
GoodRx discount
$52.95
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What are the side effects of Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Eye redness
  • Eye irritation
  • Dandruff
  • Dry skin
  • Feeling of burning on the skin

Other Side Effects

  • Pink eye
  • Rash

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

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

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)

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Pros

Works well with a single use

Available as a generic

Can be used for children as young as 6 months old

Side effects rarely happen

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Cons

Can cause irritation if it gets in the eyes, nose, or mouth

Doesn't work for all cases of lice

Not known whether it's safe for pregnant women

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)

pharmacist
  • Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) only needs to be used once to treat your head lice unlike other types of head lice medications that require repeat treatment. If you still have lice or nits 7 days after using ivermectin lotion (Sklice), contact your healthcare provider. You might need a different medication.

    • Your hair and scalp are completely dry before using ivermectin lotion (Sklice). When applying the lotion, start with your scalp and the hair closest to the scalp. Make sure it's entirely coated before moving on. Work your way outwards towards the ends of the hair, making sure all hair is coated.

      • The required 10 minutes to leave ivermectin lotion (Sklice) on starts when you have finished covering your entire scalp and all hair. Use a timer to be sure you have left the lotion on long enough.

        • When you rinse ivermectin lotion (Sklice) out, use only water. Don't use any shampoos, conditioners, or other showering products you usually use when washing your hair. You don't have to use a fine-toothed comb to remove nits with ivermectin lotion (Sklice).

          • Wash your hands well with soap and water after applying ivermectin lotion (Sklice) to your hair and scalp. This helps make sure no lice and nits are on your hands and that any excess product doesn't remain on your skin. Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) is not meant to be applied to other areas of the body and can cause irritation.

            • Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) is a one-time use product. Throw away any extra product you didn't use when you are done using it.

              • After using ivermectin lotion (Sklice), check other members of your household for lice and nits a week later. Machine wash all linens and clothes used by anyone who had lice. Wash at a high temperature (at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit) and place it in the dryer with the hottest setting for at least 20 minutes. It's best to replace hairbrushes, combs, headbands, hair clips, or other items that came into direct contact that was used by anyone with lice.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)

                Does ivermectin lotion (Sklice) kill lice eggs (nits)?
                Yes, ivermectin lotion (Sklice) kills both lice and their eggs. Because it kills the eggs, combing your hair after treatment to remove nits isn't necessary.
                Will one tube of ivermectin lotion (Sklice) be enough to cover very long hair?
                A single tube of ivermectin lotion (Sklice) should be enough for all lengths of hair. But if you or your child have exceptionally long hair (falls lower than the waist), speak with your healthcare provider.
                If ivermectin lotion (Sklice) doesn't work, does that mean other lice treatments won't work?
                No. Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) has a different ingredient than other available lice treatments. Some lice are more sensitive to some medications than others. If ivermectin lotion (Sklice) doesn't work, another treatment might work better. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about other options.
                What happens if I leave ivermectin lotion (Sklice) on longer than 10 minutes?
                Leaving ivermectin lotion (Sklice) on for too long raises your risk of experiencing side effects like burning, dandruff, and irritation. The longer it sits, the higher your risk of getting side effects. Never leave the lotion on overnight.
                Will dead nits eventually fall off after using ivermectin lotion (Sklice)?
                Yes. After using ivermectin lotion (Sklice), the nits that you see are empty shells. They will eventually come loose, but if it's bothersome, you can use a fine-toothed comb to remove them. This is not necessary, but can be done for cosmetic reasons.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)?

                Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Accidental ingestion by children

                Adults should apply ivermectin lotion (Sklice) on children. Children are more likely to put ivermectin lotion (Sklice) in their mouths, which can burn and be dangerous. Call your healthcare provider if your child accidentally puts ivermectin lotion (Sklice) in their mouth. If your child swallows any amount of ivermectin lotion (Sklice), call your local poison control center immediately.

                dosage

                Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) dosage forms

                The average cost for 1 tube of 117g of 0.5% of Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) is $52.95 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 75.45% off the average retail price of $215.66.
                tube of lotion
                Tube of lotion
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                117g of 0.5%1 tube$52.95$52.95

                Typical dosing for Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)

                Apply ivermectin lotion (Sklice) to dry hair, thoroughly covering all hair and the scalp. Leave the lotion on for 10 minutes, then wash off with water. Don't use any shampoo on your hair and scalp for 24 hours afterward.

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                How much does Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) cost?

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                alternatives

                What are alternatives to Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)?

                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Ivermectin lotion (Sklice). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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