Permethrin: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Permethrin is an anti-parasite cream and lotion. It is used for scabies and head lice. In Pakistan it is available as lotion and cream, made by 8 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Permethrin works

Permethrin is an insecticide that acts on the nerves of mites and lice, disrupting their nerve signals so they become paralysed and die. Very little is absorbed through human skin, and what is absorbed is broken down quickly.

What is Permethrin used for?

• Scabies and head lice

Permethrin is used to treat scabies, an intensely itchy skin infestation caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, and is usually applied as a cream. A lotion or rinse form is used to treat head lice. Because scabies spreads easily through close contact, everyone in the household usually needs treating at the same time, even if they have no symptoms yet.

Side effects of Permethrin

Most people use Permethrin without problems. Mild skin effects can include:

• Itching or mild burning
• Stinging or tingling
• Redness of the skin
• Dry skin or a mild rash

Itching can continue for a few weeks after successful scabies treatment; see a doctor if new burrows appear, the skin becomes infected, or you have signs of an allergic reaction.

Precautions and warnings

• Treat all household members and close contacts at the same time, even if they have no itching, to stop reinfection.
• Follow the pack instructions on how to apply it and how long to leave it on, and repeat treatment only if advised.
• Wash bedding, towels and clothing in hot water on the day of treatment.
• Keep it away from the eyes, mouth and broken skin, and ask a doctor before using it on babies.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions about Permethrin

What is the price of Permethrin in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Permethrin products currently in stock range from Rs 95 to Rs 715 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Mitonil Cream 30gm at Rs 95. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Permethrin are available in Pakistan?

Permethrin is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Scab (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Scabion (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Skab (Shaigan Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Mitonil (Saffron Pharmaceutical Company), Scabrid (Tabros Pharma), Delice (Pharma Health), Malin (Pharma Health) and Lotrix (Glaxo Smithkline Ltd), along with 3 more brands listed below.

Do I need a prescription for Permethrin?

Permethrin is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.

Can Permethrin be used during pregnancy?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Are all Permethrin brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Permethrin in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Permethrin brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 14 products containing Permethrin from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.