Over-the-Counter Scabies Remedies: Various Choices and Substitutes
Scabies, a skin condition caused by the microscopic human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, is a common health concern that can be effectively treated and prevented.
The most common and recommended first-line treatment for scabies is a topical cream containing 5% permethrin, which is applied to the entire body (except the area around the eyes) and left on for 8 to 14 hours. Permethrin works by paralyzing and killing mites, making it suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children over two months old. However, it's important to note that over-the-counter (OTC) products containing permethrin are not strong enough to treat scabies and are used for treating head lice instead [1][2][3].
Malathion lotion is another topical treatment used if permethrin is not effective. It should be applied and left on for 24 hours before being washed off [1][2].
In severe cases, such as crusted scabies, or when topical treatments are ineffective, oral medication like ivermectin may be used. However, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children weighing less than 15 kg [1][2].
Preventative measures include washing all clothes, bedding, and towels that a person with scabies has used in hot water and drying them on a hot cycle. Additionally, adding uncooked oatmeal to a cool bath and soaking in it can help ease the itching. It's also advisable to avoid touching any unwashable materials, such as carpets or couches, for a week after treatment [1][2][4].
Scabies is contagious and everyone in the household and sexual partners should treat themselves for the condition, ideally at the same time. The only way to cure scabies is by using prescription-strength cream. Items that cannot be cleaned in this way should be taken to a dry cleaner [1][2].
Following the instructions on the packaging exactly is the best way to ensure a full recovery from scabies. Symptoms of scabies include severe itching, a rash that resembles tunnel-shaped pimples, and sores from scratching the skin. If someone spots mites in their skin 14 days after using the cream, they should consult a doctor [1][2][4].
It's essential to note that skin infections might occur as a result of scabies, and anyone who thinks they might have a skin infection should consult a doctor as they might need antibiotics [5]. Using an anesthetic cream that contains pramoxine, calamine lotion, or a product that is free of additives, fragrances, and perfumes can also help ease the itching at home [1].
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against using scabies treatments intended for domestic or farm animals [6]. If symptoms persist for more than 4 weeks after using the cream, a second treatment may be necessary. Symptoms of scabies tend to lessen within about 24 hours, but it might persist for up to 4 weeks after using the cream [1][2][4].
People can get another infestation of scabies if they are exposed to the mites again. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain good hygiene and avoid close contact with those who have scabies until they have been successfully treated [7].
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Scabies. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351088 [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Scabies. [Online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/scabies/index.html [3] National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Scabies. [Online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scabies/ [4] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Scabies. [Online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/scabies [5] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). When scabies leads to a skin infection. [Online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/scabies/complications [6] Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). FDA warns against using scabies treatments intended for domestic or farm animals. [Online] Available at: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-warns-against-using-scabies-treatments-intended-domestic-or-farm-animals [7] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). How is scabies spread? [Online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/scabies/how-is-scabies-spread
- In the realm of medical-conditions, it's important to remember that over-the-counter 'OTC' products containing permethrin are not potent enough to treat skin conditions like scabies and are often used for treating head lice instead.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing fitness-and-exercise can boost the immune system, making it easier to combat health-and-wellness issues such as skin-conditions like scabies.
- When seeking relief from the itching caused by skin-conditions such as scabies, using home remedies like uncooked oatmeal in a cool bath can offer temporary relief, and products that are free of additives, fragrances, and perfumes can help in easing the discomfort at home.
