lindane topical Health Article

Generic name(s):

lindane topical

Brand name(s):

What is the most important information I should know about lindane topical?

Do not apply this medication to the face, eyes, nose, or mouth. Flush with water if you get medication in any of these areas. Seek medical attention if lindane topical is ingested or if irritation is persistent. Do not use more of this medication than is recommended. Using more than the prescribed amount of lindane topical may cause seizures or other dangerous side effects.

Treat sexual and other close contacts who are also infected. Do not use lindane topical to treat contacts who are not infected in an attempt to prevent infection from occurring.

To prevent reinfection, wash all clothing, hats, bed clothes, bed linens, hair brushes, and combs in hot water with a strong cleanser.

Talk to your doctor before using a second dose of lindane topical. Using lindane topical too soon after the first dose may cause seizures and/or death.

What is lindane topical?

Lindane is a pediculicide and a scabicide. It affects the nervous system of the parasites.

Lindane topical is used to treat head lice, pubic lice ("crabs"), and scabies.

Lindane topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using lindane topical?

Do not use lindane topical without the first talking to your doctor if you

• have ever had an allergic or bad reaction to it;

• have epilepsy or another seizure disorder;

• have many open sores or broken skin;

• have used lindane lotion or shampoo in the last few months;

• have HIV or AIDS;

• have risk factors for seizures such as a head injury, tumor in the brain or spinal cord, cirrhosis of the liver, or heavy alcohol use; or

• are treating an infant or baby, an elderly person, or an adult or child who weighs less than 110 pounds (50 kg).

You may not be able to use lindane topical, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Lindane topical is in the pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether lindane topical will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use lindane topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Lindane passes into breast milk, and may be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Lindane topical may have increased side effects when used by elderly individuals. Talk to your doctor before using lindane topical if you are 65 years of age or older.