Pyrethrins - Use, Dose, Side effects, MOA, Brands

Pyrethrins are a group of compounds that have been derived from flowers. Topical pyrethrins are used for the treatment of lice infestations in humans. The spray may be used as an insect repellant.

Pyrethrins Uses:

Pediculus humanus infestations:
- It is indicated for the treatment of Pediculus humanus infestations (head lice, body lice, pubic lice, and their eggs)

Pyrethrins Dose in Adults

Pyrethrins Dose in the treatment of Pediculus humanus infestations:

Apply the lotion topically to dry hair and/or other infested areas of the body.
Let the medicine remain in the infested area for ten minutes and then wash and rinse.
Repeat the treatment in a week to ten days.

Dose in Children:

Refer to adults dosing.

Pregnancy Risk Category: B

It can be used topically to treat lice infestations during pregnancy.

Use during breastfeeding:

You can treat lactating women with piperonyl and pyrethrins.

Dose in Kidney disease:

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.

Dose in Liver disease:

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.

Side effects of Pyrethrins:

Central nervous system:
- Localized burning
Dermatologic:
- Burning Sensation Of Skin
- Pruritus
- Skin Irritation (With Repeat Use)
- Stinging Of The Skin

Contraindications to Pyrethrins:

Allergic reactions to pyrethrins or piperonylbutoxide, and any other component of the formulation. OTC labeling

It should not be used near the eyes, in the nasal cavity, vaginal area, or inside the mouth. It should not be used to infest the eyebrows or eyelashes.

Warnings and precautions

o Topical irritation

Itching and redness may occur in patients who have had the treatment.

Monitoring Parameters:

None mentioned. Monitor for clearance of the affected area.

How to administer Pyrethrins?

It is intended for external use only.
The patients should be instructed to avoid touching the eyes, oral cavity, or other mucus membranes after applying the medicine.
The solution should be applied in enough amounts to completely wet the infested area including the hair.
When the drug is used to treat head lice, it should be first applied to areas behind the ears, back, and neck.
After applying it over the whole area, leave the area for about ten minutes.
Wash the area thoroughly after ten minutes with warm water and soap or shampoo.
For head lice, use a fine-toothed comb or a nit comb to remove the dead lice and eggs.
Avoid contact with eyes while rinsing (may use a towel or a cloth to cover the eyes).

Mechanism of action of Pyrethrins:

Pyrethrins is a grouping of compounds that are made from flowers belonging to the chrysanthemum class.
It works in the same way as DDT, acting on the neuronal membranes that the lice.
Piperonylbutoxide is often added to pyrethrin in order to increase its activity and decrease the metabolism of pyrethrins within lice and arthropods.