An assessment of topical and oral prescription and over-the-counter treatments for head lice

A plethora of head lice cases that require optimal therapeutic assessments are developing in elementary schools. Over-the-counter therapies continue to be the mainstream solution for most cases of pediculosis capitis, but the onset of resistant cases dictates a review of available treatment modalities. The increased efficacy of prescription drugs, namely topical 5% permethrin and oral ivermectin, underline the expanding role that physicians will serve in the eradication of head lice in our communities.