Ivermectin for Head Lice

Topic Overview

Ivermectin is a prescription medicine that comes as a lotion or a pill. It is sometimes used to treat head lice and other problems caused by parasites that live on or in the human body. It kills adult lice, but not their eggs.

The lotion (Sklice) is applied to the hair on the head, left on for 10 minutes, and then rinsed off.

The pill form (Stromectol) may be prescribed when lice are resistant to other forms of treatment.^{footnote 1} But some doctors have concerns about its safety.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant.