Abametapir (Topical application)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 29, 2022.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Xeglyze

Uses for abametapir

Abametapir topical lotion is used together with an overall lice management program to treat head lice infestation.

Abametapir is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using abametapir

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For abametapir, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to abametapir or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of abametapir topical lotion in children 6 months of age and older. Safety and efficacy have been established. However, use is not recommended in infants younger than 6 months of age.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of abametapir topical lotion in the geriatric population.

Interactions with medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with food/tobacco/alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Proper use of abametapir

Use abametapir exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor tells you. Do not change your treatment without checking first with your doctor.

Abametapir comes with a patient information leaflet and patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

To use the topical lotion:

• Wash your hands before and after using abametapir.
• Shake the bottle well before use.
• Use abametapir as directed on the hair and scalp only. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, and vagina. If it gets in your eyes, rinse them well with water.
• Children will need an adult to apply the medicine for them.
• Apply the medicine directly to dry hair. Start closest to the scalp and then apply outwards. Completely cover your entire scalp and all of your hair, from the roots to the tips. Use the whole tube of medicine, if needed.
• Leave the medicine on the hair and scalp for 10 minutes.