Back to Permethrin Cream 5% (Scabfree / Lyclear)

Permethrin Cream 5% Uses in Pakistan

Permethrin Cream 5% (Scabfree / Lyclear) is commonly prescribed in Pakistan for scabies and head lice. This guide covers all its approved uses, indications, and related important information.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated:

Uses

Quick Answer

Permethrin 5% cream (Scabfree/Lyclear) is used to treat scabies (khaaj/khujli — Sarcoptes scabiei mite infection), head lice (jooein), and pubic lice. It belongs to the Scabicide/Pediculicide class. It kills mites and lice by disrupting their nervous system. Always take it as directed by your doctor.

Primary Uses at a Glance

Scabies (khaaj / khujli)

Permethrin 5% cream is used to treat scabies — a skin infection caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Pakistan carries a high scabies disease burden. This cream kills mites by blocking their sodium channels, causing paralysis and death; it is also ovicidal. All household contacts must be treated simultaneously.

As prescribed by your doctor. Standard adult application: neck to toes overnight (8-12 hours).

Head Lice (Jooein)

Permethrin cream is also used to treat head lice (Pediculus capitis). It disrupts sodium channels in the lice nervous system, causing paralysis. A repeat application 7-14 days later may be done under doctor guidance.

As prescribed by your doctor.

Pubic Lice (Crab Lice)

Permethrin 5% cream is also prescribed by doctors for pubic lice (Pediculus pubis). It is essential to consult a doctor for guidance before using it in this sensitive area.

As prescribed by your doctor.

Permethrin Cream Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

Permethrin Cream 5% contains Permethrin and belongs to the Scabicide / Pediculicide group. Below are all the approved and common uses of Permethrin Cream 5% in Pakistan.

Primary Uses (Mukhya Istemal)

  • Scabies (khaaj / khujli — Sarcoptes scabiei mite infection)
  • Head lice (jooein — Pediculus capitis)
  • Pubic lice (crab lice — Pediculus pubis)

Who Should Take It (Kin logon ke liye)

  • Patients diagnosed with scabies (khaaj) by a doctor
  • Head lice or pubic lice patients where a doctor has prescribed Permethrin cream
  • All household contacts of a scabies patient
  • Children aged 2 months or older — under doctor guidance

When NOT to Use Permethrin Cream (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

  • If you are allergic to Permethrin, Pyrethrin, or chrysanthemum flowers
  • In premature infants — neurotoxicity risk
  • Never apply to eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes
  • Do not apply to severely infected or open wounds without doctor advice

Important Usage Notes (Zaroori istemal ki maloomat)

After applying Permethrin cream, itching may persist for 2–4 weeks — this is normal post-scabies inflammation, not treatment failure. Treat all household contacts simultaneously and wash all clothing/bedding at 60°C.

Summary

Permethrin Cream 5% is prescribed for scabies (khaaj/khujli), head lice (jooein), and pubic lice. It is a medicine in high demand in Pakistan given the high scabies disease burden. Always consult a doctor before starting or stopping this medicine.

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Permethrin cream kis kaam aata hai?

Permethrin 5% cream is used to treat scabies (khaaj/khujli), head lice (jooein), and pubic lice. It is a scabicide/pediculicide that paralyses the nervous system of mites and lice. Use only on a doctor's prescription.

Can Permethrin Cream be taken without a doctor's prescription?

Permethrin Cream is an Rx (prescription) medicine. Do not use it without a doctor's advice. Incorrect use can lead to treatment failure or unnecessary side effects.

Permethrin cream se nataij kitni der mein aate hain?

Mites and lice are killed after one application, but post-scabies itching can persist for 2-4 weeks — this is a normal healing process, not treatment failure.

Kya Permethrin Cream long-term use ke liye safe hai?

Permethrin cream is for short-course treatment. Long-term or repeated use without doctor guidance is not safe. The doctor decides the duration based on your condition.

Agar Permethrin Cream kaam na kare to kya karein?

If there is no improvement after 2 applications, see your doctor — this may indicate resistance or an incorrect diagnosis. Do not increase the dose on your own.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Permethrin Cream 5% (Scabfree / Lyclear).

Sources

  1. DRAP Registered Products Database Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
  2. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) World Health Organization
  3. British National Formulary (BNF) BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.