Nix skin product (Permethrin) is an over-the-counter and prescription medication used to treat scabies infection and head lice. Scabies is a parasitic infection caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs. This results in intense scratching and a rash. Head lice are tiny insects that feed on the blood of the human scalp. This condition most often affects children and is spread directly from one person's hair to another. The active ingredient in Nix skin product is Permethrin. Permethrin belongs to a class of drugs called synthetic pyrethroids. It works by paralyzing the parasites to kill them and their eggs.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Nix skin product (Complete Lice Kit and Lice Rinse Cream) from Canada by Advantage Solutions and Nix skin product (cream) by GSK. The generic Permethrin is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any signs or an allergic reaction while using Nix skin products. The most common side effects of Nix skin products may include the following:
• Dizziness;
• Headache;
• Mild burning;
• Nausea;
• Numbness or tingling at the application site
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe skin rash;
• Severe stinging or redness at the application site;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Nix skin products. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Nix skin products if you are allergic to Permethrin or any ingredient in Nix skin products. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are allergic to chrysanthemums;
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Nix skin products and other medicines, especially corticosteroids. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Nix skin product is not expected to harm your unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Permethrin passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes.
Nix skin product is a cream rinse. Do not take it by mouth. Do not use this medication on open cuts or wounds. If the medication gets into your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. If you are treating scabies, shake the medicine before use, and clean and dry your skin before application. Apply a thin layer of the medication to all your body parts, from your neck down to the soles of your feet. Rub it in thoroughly. Leave the medicine on your skin for 8 to 14 hours before washing it off thoroughly. If your condition does not clear within 14 days, apply the cream rinse again. If you are treating head lice, wash your hair with shampoo only. Do not use a conditioner or 2-in-1 shampoo. Rinse your head thoroughly and towel dry the hair to leave it damp. Apply the medicine over your hair to thoroughly saturate it. Leave it in for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
To prevent re-infestation, machine-wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infested person two days before treatment. Dry the clothing on a hot cycle for at least 20 minutes or dry clean them. Avoid using mattresses used by the infested person for at least 48 hours. Stuffed toys or pillows that cannot be washed should be sealed in an air-tight plastic bag for four weeks. Vigorously shake the item outdoors after removing the bag. Vacuum all rugs, carpets, and car seats, then throw away the vacuum cleaner bag. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.