Skip to main content

Nix Lice Control

Generic name: permethrin topicalper-METH-rin ]
Brand names: Acticin, Lice Bedding Spray, Nix Complete Lice Treatment, Nix Complete Lice Treatment System, Nix Cream Rinse, ... show all 10 brands
Drug class: Topical anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 9, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Nix Lice Control?

Permethrin is an anti-parasite medication.

Nix Lice Control is used to treat head lice.

Nix Lice Control may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Nix Lice Control side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, redness, or swelling after applying Nix Lice Control.

Common side effects of Nix Lice Control may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Nix Lice Control if you are allergic to permethrin or to chrysanthemums.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions.

Nix Lice Control is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether permethrin topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Nix Lice Control should not be used on a child younger than 2 months old.

How should I use Nix Lice Control?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

You may have a temporary increase in itching, swelling, or redness of treated skin when you first start using Nix Lice Control.

Do not take by mouth. This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not apply to open cuts or wounds. If the medicine gets in your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. Use the surface spray only on household surfaces and not on your skin.

You may need to shake the medicine before each use. Follow the directions on the medicine label.

To treat head lice:

To treat pubic lice (crabs):

To prevent reinfection, wash all clothing, hats, bed clothes, bed linens, and towels in hot water and dry in high heat. Dry-clean any non-washable clothing. Soak all hair brushes, combs, and hair accessories in hot water for at least 10 minutes.

Use permethrin surface spray to disinfect non-washable items such as:

Stuffed toys or pillows that cannot be washed should be sealed in air-tight plastic bags for 4 weeks. After removing from the bag, vigorously shake the item outdoors.

Vacuum all rugs, carpets, and car seats. Then throw away the vacuum cleaner bag.

For the most complete treatment of head lice, you must treat your environment (clothing, bedding, etc) at the same time you treat your hair.

Store Nix Lice Control at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

sodium chloride topical, ivermectin topical, permethrin topical, Elimite, acetic acid topical, spinosad topical, Natroba, lindane topical, Nix Complete Lice Treatment System, Crotan

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Nix Lice Control is usually needed only once, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule. Wait at least 7 days before using a second application.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you think you have used too much, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Nix Lice Control?

Rinse with water if Nix Lice Control gets in your eyes.

Head lice infections are highly contagious. Avoid sexual or intimate contact with others until your head lice infection has cleared up. Avoid sharing hair brushes, combs, hair accessories, hats, clothing, bed linens, and other articles of personal use.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Nix Lice Control, unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect Nix Lice Control?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied Nix Lice Control. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Does Nix Lice Control interact with my other drugs?

Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our Drug Interaction Checker.

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.