Nix
Generic name: Permethrin Cream Rinse and Lotion [ per-METH-rin ]
Drug class: Topical anti-infectives
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 22, 2023.
Uses of Nix:
- It is used to treat lice.
- It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Nix?
- If you have an allergy to permethrin, chrysanthemums, or any other part of Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion).
- If you are allergic to Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion); any part of Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Nix?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- If Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion) is taken by mouth, get medical help or call a poison control center right away.
- Do not use on a child younger than 2 months of age without first checking with the doctor.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
How is this medicine (Nix) best taken?
Use Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- Do not take Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion) by mouth. Use on your scalp and hair only. Keep out of your mouth, nose, ears, and eyes (may burn).
- Shampoo hair, rinse, and towel dry before use. Use a shampoo without a conditioner.
- Shake well before use.
- Cover eyes and face with a towel. Keep eyes closed tightly.
- Work into hair and scalp gently.
- Leave on for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, fully rinse hair and scalp with water only.
- Dry with a towel.
- Wash your hands after use.
- Use special nit comb or tweezers to get rid of dead nits (lice eggs) from hair.
- Wash all bedding, towels, and recently worn clothes in hot water or have them dry cleaned.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- Put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- A burning or tingling feeling that is not normal.
- Eye irritation.
What are some other side effects of Nix?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
- Itching. Talk to the doctor about what to do.
- Irritation where Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion) is used.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Nix?
- Store at room temperature. Throw away any part not used after use.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Nix (permethrin cream rinse and lotion), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
Frequently asked questions
More about Nix (permethrin topical)
- Compare alternatives
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical anti-infectives
- Breastfeeding
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.