Hello Doctor,
I have been experiencing a distressing issue - I have been discovering lice in my hair. It's truly unsettling, and despite my efforts to clean thoroughly, they seem persistent. In my attempt to address the problem, I purchased ivermectin tablets. However, I am uncertain about the dosage criteria and potential side effects. Upon researching online, I came across alarming information suggesting a risk of liver problems and coma associated with this medication. It's my understanding that this drug should be taken once every three months. Could you kindly advise me on whether I should proceed with taking it? Alternatively, I would greatly appreciate your recommendation for an alternative tablet that can effectively eliminate these lice.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
As a dermatologist, I empathize with the distress you are experiencing due to the presence of lice in your hair. It can indeed be quite unsettling. Regarding your inquiry about ivermectin tablets, I'd like to provide you with some guidance.
Ivermectin is indeed a potent medication commonly used to treat various types of parasite infestations, including lice. However, it is essential to exercise caution and use it under medical supervision due to its potential side effects, as you rightly mentioned. In the case of head lice, we typically opt for topical treatments as the initial approach, rather than resorting to oral medications.
Over-the-counter treatments containing active ingredients such as permethrin or pyrethrin are often recommended as the first line of defense against lice infestations. These topical solutions, available in the form of shampoos or lotions, are applied directly to the scalp and hair and can effectively eradicate both lice and their eggs.
If you find that over-the-counter treatments are not yielding satisfactory results, there are prescription medications that can be considered. However, it is imperative to use these under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize the risk of potential side effects.
In addition to medication-based treatments, it is crucial to complement your approach with thorough combing of the hair using a fine-toothed comb. This physical removal method helps eliminate lice and their eggs from the hair strands. Furthermore, it is essential to sanitize all bedding, clothing, and personal items that may have come into contact with the affected hair to prevent re-infestation.
I hope this information proves helpful in addressing your concerns about lice infestation. Should you have any further questions or require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thanks
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