Nix Lice Control

Generic name:permethrin topical [ per-METH-rin ]
Brand names: Acticin, Elimite, Lice Bedding Spray, Nix Lice Control, RID Home Lice Control Spray for Surfaces
Drug class:Topical anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 14, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Nix Lice Control?

Permethrin is an anti-parasite medication.

Nix Lice Control may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Nix Lice Control if you are allergic to permethrin or to chrysanthemums.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions.

Nix Lice Control is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether permethrin topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Nix Lice Control should not be used on a child younger than 2 months old.

How should I use Nix Lice Control?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

You may have a temporary increase in itching, swelling, or redness of treated skin when you first start using Nix Lice Control.

Do not take by mouth. This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not apply to open cuts or wounds. If the medicine gets in your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. Use the surface spray only on household surfaces and not on your skin.

You may need to shake the medicine before each use. Follow the directions on the medicine label.

To treat head lice:

• Wash your hair using shampoo only (no conditioner or 2-in-1 shampoo). Rinse thoroughly and towel dry the hair, leaving it damp.

• Protect your eyes with a towel or washcloth. Apply the medicine to completely saturate all hair, and leave it in for 10 minutes. Then rinse with warm water.

• You may also use a nit comb to remove lice eggs from the hair. Your hair should be slightly damp while using a nit comb. Work on only one section of hair at a time, combing through 1 to 2-inch strands from the scalp to the ends.

• Rinse the nit comb often during use. Place removed nits into a sealed plastic bag and throw it into the trash.

• Check the scalp again daily to make sure all nits have been removed.

• If you st.