Kwell (Topical)
Generic name: lindane (topical route) [ LIN-dane ]
Drug class:Topical anti-infectives
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 20, 2022.
Lindane shampoo should only be used in patients who cannot tolerate or have failed first-line treatment with safer medications for the treatment of lice. Seizures and deaths have been reported following lindane shampoo use with repeat or prolonged application, but also in rare cases following a single application according to directions. Lindane shampoo should be used with caution in infants, children, the elderly, and individuals with other skin conditions, and those who weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kg) as they may be at risk of serious neurotoxicity. Lindane shampoo is contraindicated in premature infants and individuals with known uncontrolled seizure disorders. Instruct patients on the proper use of lindane shampoo, the amount to apply, how long to leave it on, and avoiding retreatment. Inform patients that itching occurs after the successful killing of lice and is not necessarily an indication for retreatment with lindane shampoo .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Kwell
- Thionex
In Canada
- Kwellada Lotion 1%
- Lindane
- Pms-Lindane
Available Dosage Forms:
- Shampoo
Therapeutic Class: Pediculicide
Uses for Kwell
Lindane , formerly known as gamma benzene hexachloride, is an insecticide and is used to treat scabies and lice infestations.
Lindane cream and lotion are usually used to treat only scabies infestation. Lindane shampoo is used to treat only lice infestations.
Lindane is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Kwell
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 this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine 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
Infants and children or people who weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kilograms) are especially sensitive to the effects of lindane. This may increase the chance of serious side effects during treatment. Be sure you have discussed the risks and benefits of using this medicine with your doctor. In addition, use of lindane is not to be used in premature infants.
Geriatric
Elderly people or people who weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kilograms) are especially sensitive to the effects of lindane. This may increase the chance of serious side effects during treatment. Be sure you have discussed the risks and benefits of this medicine with your doctor.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
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