Expert Advice for Treating Scabies Effectively

Published on, 04 June, 2024. Answered by Dr. Anna Chacon and Verified by Dr.Galen Team
Patient Question

Hello Doctor,

I have been diagnosed with scabies, a skin infestation caused by mites, and underwent treatment for three months. The treatment seemed to improve my condition, but shortly after stopping it, the symptoms returned. Should I continue using the prescribed treatment, which includes permethrin cream and momox ointment?

Answered by Dr. Anna Chacon

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

Your inquiry regarding the management of scabies is indeed pertinent, and I appreciate your diligence in seeking further guidance on this matter. Scabies, as you may already know, is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Its hallmark symptoms include intense itching and a characteristic rash, often worsening at night.

In response to your query, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of continuing the prescribed treatment regimen for scabies, even if initial improvements were observed. This is because discontinuation of treatment prematurely can pave the way for the recurrence of the infestation. The Sarcoptes mites responsible for scabies possess a persistent nature, necessitating diligent and sustained therapeutic measures to eradicate them completely.

Permethrin cream and momox ointment, the medications prescribed to you, are well-established treatments for scabies and have demonstrated efficacy in alleviating symptoms and eliminating the mites when utilized as directed. Permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid, works by paralyzing and killing the mites upon contact, while momox ointment, containing sulfur as its active ingredient, exerts acaricidal effects, aiding in the eradication of the mites and soothing the associated skin inflammation.

Furthermore, alongside pharmacological interventions, adherence to proper hygiene practices is paramount in preventing the spread of scabies to others and curtailing the likelihood of reinfection. This encompasses regular laundering of clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water, as well as thorough cleaning of living spaces to eliminate any mites or their eggs that may linger on surfaces.

In light of your ongoing concerns, I strongly advocate for a comprehensive consultation with your healthcare provider to reassess your treatment plan and address any underlying factors that may contribute to the persistence of your symptoms. Your healthcare provider, equipped with a detailed understanding of your medical history and individual circumstances, can offer tailored recommendations and adjustments to optimize the management of your condition.

In conclusion, I commend your proactive approach to managing your health and urge you to prioritize continuity in your scabies treatment regimen. By diligently adhering to prescribed therapies and incorporating stringent hygiene practices, you can endeavor towards achieving sustained relief from scabies and safeguarding both your well-being and that of those around you.


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