ivermectin non-prescription
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.
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.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Sklice |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Antiparasitic |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | Lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Over-the-counter |
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
Less Common Side Effects
- Pink eye
- Rash
The following Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Burning or pain at application site
- Eye irritation or itching
- Irritation at application site
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Pros and cons of Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)
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
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 for Ivermectin lotion (Sklice)
- 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.
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.
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.
Ivermectin lotion (Sklice) dosage
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 117g of 0.5% | 1 tube | $52.95 | $52.95 |
Typical dosage 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.