Acticin (Permethrin 5%)
Acticin: A Topical Anti-Parasite Medication
Acticin (Permethrin 5%) is a topical anti-parasite medication used to treat scabies—a skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This prescription cream works by paralyzing and killing the mites and their eggs upon contact. Acticin is also used to treat head lice in some cases, but other formulations of permethrin (like 1% permethrin lotion) are more commonly used for lice infestations.
How Acticin Works
Acticin contains permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide, which:
✔ Disrupts the nervous system of parasites, causing paralysis and death.
✔ Kills mites and eggs on contact, preventing reinfestation.
✔ Provides relief from itching and irritation caused by scabies infestations.
How to Use Acticin (Permethrin 5%)
📌 Application Steps:
1️⃣ Wash and dry the affected areas before applying the cream.
2️⃣ Apply a thin layer to the entire body from neck down to toes (including soles of the feet).
3️⃣ Leave on for 8–14 hours (typically overnight).
4️⃣ Rinse off completely with water.
5️⃣ Wash bedding, clothes, and towels to prevent reinfestation.
📌 Precautions:
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Not recommended for infants under 2 months unless prescribed by a doctor.
- One application is usually sufficient, but a second dose may be needed after 7–14 days if symptoms persist.
Possible Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
🔹 Mild burning or tingling sensation
🔹 Itching or redness after application
🔹 Temporary skin irritation
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
❗ Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
❗ Intense skin irritation or worsening of symptoms
📌 If side effects persist or worsen, consult a doctor immediately.
Who Should Avoid Acticin?
🚫 Not recommended for individuals with:
- Severe allergies to permethrin or pyrethrins
- Inflamed or severely damaged skin
- Uncontrolled asthma (may worsen symptoms)
🚨 Pregnancy & Breastfeeding:
- Generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consult a doctor before use.
- If breastfeeding, avoid applying cream near the chest area.
Acticin vs. Other Scabies Treatments
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Use | Prescription Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acticin (Permethrin 5%) | Permethrin | First-line treatment for scabies | ✅ Yes |
| Eurax (Crotamiton 10%) | Crotamiton | Alternative for permethrin-sensitive patients | ✅ Yes |
| Lindane Lotion | Lindane | Second-line treatment (neurotoxic risks) | ✅ Yes |
| Ivermectin (Stromectol) | Ivermectin (oral) | Severe or widespread scabies | ✅ Yes |
Prevention & Aftercare
✔ Wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water after treatment.
✔ Avoid skin-to-skin contact until fully treated.
✔ Family members and close contacts may also need treatment to prevent reinfestation.
✔ Itching may persist for up to 2 weeks after treatment, even if mites are gone.
Acticin (Permethrin 5%) is an effective and widely used topical treatment for scabies and some lice infestations. It works by paralyzing and killing mites and their eggs, helping to relieve symptoms and prevent further spread. While generally safe and well-tolerated, it is important to follow application instructions carefully and take necessary hygiene precautions to prevent reinfestation.
🔹 If symptoms persist after treatment, consult a doctor for alternative therapies. 🚀
