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Lindane topical Side Effects

Some side effects of lindane topical may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to lindane topical: topical liquid, topical lotion, topical shampoo

Stop using lindane topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an uncommon but serious side effect such as

  • an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives);

  • seizures; or

  • uncontrollable body shaking.

Other less serious side effects may also occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience

  • dizziness or drowsiness;

  • itching, burning, dryness, or rash of the skin.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to lindane topical: topical liquid, topical lotion, topical shampoo

Nervous system

Seizures reported with topical lindane use for scabies have generally followed its inappropriate use. Such uses include application of the lotion after a bath to hydrated skin, repeated applications, or prolonged use. Many of the patients who have experienced seizures following lindane use are infants and small children.

Pseudotumor cerebri has been reported following long-term exposure to a lindane veterinary product.

Nervous system side effects have included dizziness, paresthesias, headache, disorientation, seizures, and death. Seizures have occurred after both improper and proper use.

Hematologic

Many reports of aplastic anemia occurred in the 1950s and 60s during which time lindane vaporizers were used in the home. These devices heated lindane pellets and continuously released a vapor into the air.

Hematologic abnormalities, including aplastic anemia, have been reported anecdotally in patients who were exposed to lindane pesticide or veterinarian products. At least two patients have experienced aplastic anemia following repeated, long-term use (over three to six weeks) of topical lindane for the treatment of scabies.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included alopecia, dermatitis, contact dermatitis, pruritus, and urticaria.

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. In addition, the drug information contained herein may be time sensitive and should not be utilized as a reference resource beyond the date hereof. This information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients, or recommend therapy. This drug information is a reference resource designed as supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill , knowledge, and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug of drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Drugs.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

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