Treatment of scabies often involves lotions containing permethrin, lindane, or sulfur. For people with HIV or Norwegian scabies, ivermectin -- which is taken orally -- may be prescribed instead. Treatment of scabies means killing the mites and their eggs, treating anyone who has had close contact with the patient, and preventing the scabies from returning.
Treatment of Scabies: An Introduction
Successful treatment of
scabies requires killing the scabies mites
(Sarcoptes scabiei), treating any family members who have been in close contact with the infected person, and preventing the scabies from returning. Both the patient and family members can receive the same treatment of scabies.
Medicines Used in the Treatment of Scabies
Several lotions can be used in the treatment of scabies. Common ones include:
- Lindane
- Sulfur
- Permethrin (Elimite® cream).
Always follow the directions provided by your physician or the directions on the package insert. Apply lotion to a clean body from the neck down to the toes, and leave on overnight (8 hours). After 8 hours, take a bath or shower to wash off the lotion. A second application of the same lotion may be necessary 7 to 10 days later.
For people with
Norwegian scabies or
HIV, ivermectin, which is taken orally, may be given as a treatment for scabies.
Other Recommendations for the Treatment of Scabies
It is important that all scabies eggs and mites be killed. So all clothes, bedding, and towels used by the infested person should be washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer two days before treatment of scabies begins. Special cleaning is not required for furniture, coats, rugs, floors, and walls.
Treatment of Scabies in Significant Others
Anyone who is diagnosed with scabies (as well as his or her sexual partners and those who have close, prolonged contact with the infested person) should receive treatment for scabies. If your healthcare provider has instructed family members to be treated, everyone should receive treatment for scabies at the same time to prevent another infestation.
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