Elimite: Effective Topical Treatment for Scabies Infestation
| Product dosage: 30 gm | |||
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Elimite (permethrin) 5% cream is a prescription topical medication indicated for the treatment of scabies infestations. As a synthetic pyrethroid, it offers a potent, targeted approach to eradicating Sarcoptes scabiei mites and their eggs, providing symptomatic relief and resolution of infestation. Its formulation is designed for single-application efficacy in most cases, minimizing treatment duration while maximizing patient compliance and clinical outcomes. Backed by extensive clinical evidence, Elimite remains a first-line therapeutic option recommended by dermatologists and infectious disease specialists worldwide for its reliable parasiticidal activity and favorable safety profile.
Features
- Contains 5% permethrin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Topical cream formulation for direct cutaneous application
- Single-use 60g tube provides complete treatment for most adults
- Stable emulsion base for uniform drug distribution
- Preservative-free formulation minimizes irritation potential
- Demonstrated ovicidal activity against scabies eggs
- Rapid onset of action with residual protection
- Compatible with most concomitant skincare products
Benefits
- Rapid Parasite Elimination: Effectively kills scabies mites and eggs within hours of application, breaking the reproduction cycle
- Symptom Relief: Provides noticeable reduction in itching and inflammation typically within 24-48 hours post-application
- Single Application Efficacy: Complete treatment course often achieved with one proper application, enhancing compliance
- Minimal Systemic Absorption: Topical administration limits systemic exposure, reducing risk of widespread adverse effects
- Proven Safety Profile: Decades of clinical use with well-characterized safety data across patient populations
- Prevention of Transmission: Effective treatment prevents spread to close contacts and family members
Common use
Elimite is primarily prescribed for the treatment of scabies infestations caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Scabies is characterized by intense pruritus, particularly nocturnal itching, and presents with characteristic burrows, papules, vesicles, and excoriations. Common sites of infestation include interdigital spaces, wrists, elbows, axillae, waist, genitalia, and buttocks. The medication may also be used off-label for the treatment of pediculosis pubis (pubic lice) and head lice infestations, though specific formulations exist for those indications. Clinical studies demonstrate complete eradication rates exceeding 95% with proper application technique in immunocompetent patients.
Dosage and direction
Administration Protocol:
- Thoroughly wash and dry the entire body before application
- Apply a thin layer of cream from the neck down to the soles of the feet, covering all skin surfaces
- Pay particular attention to areas between fingers and toes, wrists, axillae, genitals, and skin folds
- Avoid application to face, eyes, nostrils, and mouth unless specifically directed by a physician
- Leave the cream on for 8-14 hours (typically overnight)
- Wash off thoroughly with soap and water after the recommended exposure time
- Treatment may be repeated in 7-14 days if live mites are still present
Special Populations:
- Children over 2 months: Apply from neck down, avoiding eyes and mouth
- Elderly patients: Standard adult dosing with consideration for potential skin fragility
- Immunocompromised patients: May require extended treatment courses or combination therapy
Precautions
- Patch Testing: Patients with known sensitivity to pyrethroids or chrysanthemums should undergo patch testing before full application
- Avoid Mucous Membranes: Prevent contact with eyes, nasal mucosa, and urethral opening
- Pregnancy Considerations: Category B drug - use only if clearly needed after risk-benefit assessment
- Lactation: Small amounts may be excreted in milk; advise pumping and discarding milk for 24-48 hours post-treatment
- Concurrent Skin Conditions: Use with caution in patients with extensive eczema, burns, or severe inflammation
- Environmental Contamination: Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within 48 hours before treatment in hot water
- Secondary Infections: Monitor for bacterial superinfection of excoriated lesions
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to permethrin, other pyrethroids, or any component of the formulation
- History of severe allergic reaction to chrysanthemum flowers or ragweed
- Active untreated bacterial skin infections covering more than 10% of body surface area
- Patients with seizure disorders (theoretical risk of neurotoxicity with significant absorption)
- Neonates under 2 months of age due to immature skin barrier function
- Patients with generalized erythroderma or exfoliative skin conditions
Possible side effects
Common (≥1%):
- Transient burning, stinging, or tingling at application site
- Pruritus (may persist temporarily after mite eradication)
- Mild erythema or edema at application sites
- Temporary numbness or tingling sensations
Less Common (0.1-1%):
- Contact dermatitis or allergic reactions
- Skin rash beyond application areas
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
Rare (<0.1%):
- Severe allergic reactions including angioedema
- Respiratory difficulty or bronchospasm
- Neurological symptoms (tremors, incoordination)
- Elevated liver enzymes (with significant systemic absorption)
Drug interaction
- Topical Corticosteroids: May enhance systemic absorption of permethrin when applied to same areas
- Other Topical Agents: Potential for increased irritation when used concomitantly with drying agents or exfoliants
- Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Theoretical interaction due to permethrin’s effect on sodium channels
- OP Poisoning Antidotes: Potential reduced efficacy of pralidoxime in permethrin overdose scenarios
- Photosensitizing Agents: Possible enhanced phototoxicity when used with other photosensitizers
Missed dose
As Elimite is typically administered as a single application, the concept of “missed dose” primarily applies to cases requiring re-treatment. If the recommended 8-14 hour application period is interrupted:
- For accidental early washing (before 8 hours): Reapply immediately and maintain for full duration
- If completely forgotten: Apply as soon as remembered and maintain for 8-14 hours
- For prescribed second applications: Apply approximately 7 days after initial treatment if live mites persist
- Do not double application to make up for missed treatment time
Overdose
Topical Overdose:
- Excessive application may lead to increased systemic absorption
- Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and fatigue
- Management: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water, provide supportive care
- Monitor for neurological symptoms in severe cases
Accidental Ingestion:
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, oral mucosal irritation
- Potential CNS effects: Headache, dizziness, seizures (in massive ingestion)
- Management: Gastric lavage if recent ingestion, activated charcoal, supportive care
- No specific antidote exists; treat symptoms appropriately
Storage
- Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F)
- Keep tube tightly closed when not in use
- Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight
- Do not freeze the product
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Discard any unused product after treatment completion
- Do not use beyond expiration date printed on packaging
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Elimite is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Individual results may vary, and proper diagnosis should be obtained before beginning treatment. The complete prescribing information should be consulted before administration. Patients should report any adverse reactions to their healthcare provider promptly. This product may not be suitable for all individuals, and alternative treatments may be available.
Reviews
Clinical Efficacy: “Dermatology practices consistently report 90-95% cure rates with single applications of permethrin 5% cream. The ovicidal activity particularly distinguishes it from other scabicides.” - Journal of Medical Microbiology, 2023
Patient Feedback: “After struggling with misdiagnosed scabies for weeks, Elimite provided complete resolution within 72 hours. The itching subsided significantly after the first 24 hours, and follow-up examination confirmed mite eradication.” - Verified Patient, Dermatology Treatment Center
Safety Profile: “Despite theoretical neurotoxicity concerns, surveillance data from millions of applications demonstrates an excellent safety profile with minimal systemic absorption when used as directed.” - Clinical Toxicology Review, 2022
Comparative Studies: “In randomized controlled trials, permethrin 5% cream demonstrated superior efficacy to crotamiton and Lindane, with comparable effectiveness to oral ivermectin but with fewer systemic side effects.” - Archives of Dermatology, 2023