Description:

Permethrin Cream (typically 5% w/w, 30g tube) is a topical antiparasitic medication used primarily to treat scabies (a skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites) and sometimes crab lice (pubic lice/pediculosis pubis). It works by paralyzing and killing the mites and their eggs through disruption of their nervous system. The cream is applied to the entire body (from neck down in adults, including head/scalp in infants/young children if needed), left on for 8-14 hours (usually overnight), then washed off. It is effective in most cases with one or two applications (repeated after 7 days if required). In Ghana (Accra), it is a common, affordable treatment for scabies outbreaks, often prescribed or recommended by dermatologists/pharmacists.

Prescription:

Prescription-only in many regions (including Ghana for the 5% strength; requires a doctor’s prescription, especially for scabies confirmation and to rule out other conditions). Available through pharmacies (e.g., Trafalgar Gate Pharma, Beybee Pharmacy, Caplet Cares, Origin Chemist) with Rx; not freely OTC in most cases due to potential misuse.

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Antiparasitic / Pediculicide / Scabicide (Pyrethroid insecticide for ectoparasitic infestations.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient:
• Permethrin 5% w/w (50 mg per gram). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Cetostearyl alcohol, liquid paraffin, propylene glycol, white soft paraffin, purified water, emulsifiers (e.g., glycerol monostearate), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben), and stabilizers. The cream is white to off-white, non-greasy, and odorless or mildly scented.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Standard Permethrin 5% Cream 30g tube (common size in Ghana; sufficient for one adult full-body application). Related variants: Permethrin 1% lotion/cream rinse (for head lice, e.g., Nix generics), higher packs (60g), or branded generics (e.g., Permite, Skilin, Percon). No major variants for the 5% cream beyond pack size.

Consume Type:

Topical – Cream (applied externally to skin; not for oral, ophthalmic, or internal use; massage gently into clean, dry skin).

Directions/Usage:

Use only as directed by a doctor or label (for scabies):

• Bathe or shower and dry thoroughly before application.
• Adults/children >12 years: Apply a thin layer to entire body from neck down (including between fingers/toes, under nails, skin folds, genitals, buttocks). Pay special attention to creases and interdigital spaces.
• Infants/young children (<2 years): Include scalp, face (avoid eyes/mouth), and neck.
• Leave on for 8-14 hours (overnight), then wash off thoroughly with soap/water.
• Repeat application after 7 days to kill newly hatched mites.
• Treat all household/close contacts simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
• Wash all bedding/clothing/towels in hot water (>60°C) and dry on high heat. Do not apply to face/eyes/mucous membranes (unless directed for head in young children). One 30g tube usually suffices for one adult treatment.

Common Side Effects:

Common (mild, usually resolve after washing off):

• Mild burning, stinging, tingling, or itching at application site (often due to dying mites rather than drug).
• Redness, rash, or dryness.
• Temporary numbness/tingling (paresthesia). Rare/serious (seek medical help): Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), intense irritation, or blistering. Side effects affect ~10% of users mildly.

Package Type:

Aluminium or plastic laminated tube of 30g cream, with screw cap; often in a carton with patient information leaflet.

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25-30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and freezing. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external use only; avoid eyes, mouth, mucous membranes, or broken/irritated skin.
• Contraindicated if allergic to permethrin, chrysanthemums/pyrethrins, or any excipients.
• Caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (generally safe but consult doctor; Category B).
• Safe for children >2 months (use under guidance).
• Do not use for longer than prescribed (risk of irritation or resistance).
• If no improvement after two applications or worsening, seek medical review (possible reinfestation or misdiagnosis).
• Treat close contacts and clean environment to prevent spread.

Product Substitutes:

Similar permethrin 5% creams available in Ghana include:

• Permite Cream 5% (or generics).
• Skilin 5% Cream.
• Generic Permethrin 5% (various importers, e.g., from India/Egypt).
• Branded like Lyclear Dermal Cream (if available). Alternatives (if permethrin unavailable): Ivermectin oral (for crusted scabies or widespread cases), benzyl benzoate lotion, crotamiton cream, or sulfur preparations (consult doctor). In Accra, check pharmacies like Trafalgar Gate, Beybee, or Caplet Cares.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Varies by batch; common manufacturers include Indian companies (e.g., Curatio Healthcare for Permite generics, Actiza Pharma, or Conical Pharmaceuticals) or others like Sandoz generics. Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Trafalgar Gate Pharma, Caplet Cares, Beybee Pharmacy, Origin Chemist).

Country of Origin:

India