AN ASSESSMENT OF TOPICAL AND ORAL PRESCRIPTION AND OVER-THE-COUNTER TREATMENTS FOR HEAD LICE

A plethora of head lice cases that require optimal therapeutic assessm ents are developing in elementary schools. Over-the-counter therapies continue to be the mainstream solution for most cases of pediculosis c apitis, but the onset of resistant cases dictates a review of availabl e treatment modalities. The increased efficacy of prescription drugs, namely topical 5% permethrin and oral ivermectin, underline the expand ing role that physicians will serve in the eradication of head lice in our communities.