Pubic Lice (Cont.)

Treating Pubic Lice

Pubic lice is treated with medication, which is generally effective, as long as the person follows the directions on the bottle exactly. Current medications available for treating pubic lice include:
 
  • Pyrethrin (such as Rid®, A-200®, Clear®, and R&C®)
  • Permethrin (Nix®)
  • Lindane (Kwell®) -- available by prescription only.
     
To kill any lice or nits attached to hairs that may be left on clothing or bedding, machine-wash any washable items that the infested person used during the two to three days before treatment. Make sure to use the hot water cycle (130°F). Dry laundry using high heat for at least 20 minutes.
 
(Click Treatment for Pubic Lice to learn more about treating pubic lice, including how medicines should be applied.)
 

Pages:

Previous 1 2 3

Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD