Permethrin 5% Cream
Generic For: Elimite
Permethrin 5% cream (brand name Elimite) is a prescription topical scabicide used to treat scabies, an infestation of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. After a licensed provider reviews your information and issues a prescription, your medication ships discreetly from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.
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7-day supply · $0.58/gram
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Buy Permethrin 5% Cream (Elimite) Online
A topical scabicide cream used to treat scabies infestations
Permethrin 5% Cream Quick Facts
| Drug class | Topical scabicide (pyrethroid) |
|---|---|
| Treats | Scabies infestation |
| Form | Cream |
| Typical dosing | Apply cream from head to toe for 8-14 hours then rinse off re-apply in 1 week if needed. |
| Prescription required | Yes — prescription only |
What Is Permethrin 5% Cream?
Permethrin 5% cream, sold under the brand name Elimite, is a prescription topical medication used to treat scabies. It belongs to a class of medications called pyrethroids, which work by paralyzing and killing the mites and their eggs. Permethrin is applied to the skin from the neck down (including the head and scalp in some patients), left on for a set period, and then washed off. It is FDA-approved for adults and children 2 months of age and older.
What Does Permethrin 5% Cream Treat?
Scabies infestation (Sarcoptes scabiei)
Scabies in adults
Scabies in children 2 months of age and older
Treatment of household members and close contacts, when directed by a provider
Retreatment of scabies if live mites are present 14 days after initial treatment
Permethrin 5% Cream Dosage
Massage cream thoroughly into the skin from the head (neck down in most adults) to the soles of the feet.
Leave on for 8–14 hours, then remove by washing (shower or bath).
One application is usually curative; may repeat once in 14 days if living mites are present.
Your prescriber will determine the dose and duration that are right for you. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.
Permethrin 5% Cream Side Effects
Common side effects
- Mild burning or stinging at application
- Itching (pruritus)
- Tingling or numbness
- Redness (erythema)
- Mild skin rash
- Temporary worsening of itching after application
Serious side effects
Stop taking this medication and seek medical attention right away if you experience:
- Severe skin irritation, blistering, or swelling
- Signs of allergic reaction (hives, swelling of face or throat, trouble breathing)
- Severe or persistent burning at application sites
- Signs of skin infection (increasing pain, warmth, pus)
Warnings & Interactions
For external use only; do not swallow or apply to eyes or mucous membranes
Do not use if allergic to permethrin, pyrethroids, pyrethrins, or chrysanthemums
Itching may persist for up to 4 weeks after successful treatment; this does not always mean treatment failed
Not established for infants under 2 months of age
Scabies is contagious; close contacts may need evaluation and treatment
Tell your provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before use
Avoid contact with open wounds or severely inflamed skin unless directed by your provider
Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting permethrin 5% cream.
Sources & References
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