What is the Spinosad topical?
Spinosad is an anti-parasite medication. The topical Spinosad (for the skin) is used for treating head louse in adults and children older than 6 months. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Spinosad Topical.
Side effects of Spinosad topical
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
If you experience severe burning, stinging, or irritation following the application of spinosad, rinse off the medication and contact your doctor immediately.
Spinosad topical side effects
- Itchy or red scalp
- Redness of the eye or irritation.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to spinosad, it is best not to use the topical. Tell your doctor about any skin conditions that can make you sensitive to spinosad. Spinosad topical should not harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant.
Spinosad topical does not pass into breast milk. This medicine does contain a preservative, which may harm a newborn. You should not breastfeed for 8 hours following the application of spinosad. Do not give it to your child.
Never use Spinosad topical on infants without consulting a doctor. This medicine contains an ingredient that can cause severe side effects or even death in premature or very young babies. Spinosad should not be used by older children without adult supervision.
How to take Spinosad topical?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or continue taking it beyond its intended timeframe. This medicine should not be taken orally. This product is only for the hair and scalp. Shake the bottle thoroughly before using the medicine. Only apply this medicine to the scalp and hair. This medicine should only be applied to hair that is dry. Cover your eyes and face with a towel. During the application, keep your eyes closed.
Spinosad Topical should not be applied to wet hair or scalp. Spinosad should not be applied to skin that is sunburned or irritated. Spinosad is applied to the scalp and hair. First, apply the medicine to the scalp, and then move onto the hair roots. After applying spinosad topically, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Keep your eyes covered and closed for the entire 10-minute period. Rinse the medicine thoroughly with warm, running water.
Use a nit-comb to remove the lice eggs from damp hair. Only work on one section at a time. Comb through 1 to 2 inch strands of hair from the scalp down to the ends. Rinse your nit-comb frequently during use. To prevent reinfestation, place the nits that you have removed into a plastic bag. Make sure you check your scalp daily to ensure all nits are gone. If you still see lice 7 days after the first application, apply a second spinosad topically. To prevent reinfection and for the best treatment of head lice, treat the environment as well as the scalp.
All clothing, towels, bed sheets, linens, and hats should be washed in hot water. Dry-clean all clothing that cannot be washed. Hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories must be soaked for 10 minutes in hot water. Vacuum all carpets and rugs, and then throw out the vacuum cleaner bag. Store Spinosad Topical at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for lice:
After 10 minutes, thoroughly rinse the drug off with warm water.
Comments:
Use up to 120 ml, depending on the length of your hair, to cover your scalp and hair.
If live lice can be seen seven days after the initial treatment, a second treatment is recommended.
Use: To treat head lice on a topical basis.
Usual pediatric dose for lice:
After 6 months, apply enough topical suspension to the scalp and hair to cover it. Leave for 10 minutes. Then thoroughly rinse with warm water.
Comments:
Use up to 120 ml, depending on the length of your hair, to cover your scalp and hair.
If live lice can be seen seven days after the initial treatment, a second treatment is recommended.
Use: To treat head lice on a topical basis.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Because spinosad is typically only needed once, there is no need to follow a dosing regimen. Wait at least seven days before applying for a second application.
What happens if I overdose?
If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, eyes, or vagina. If you do get it in your eyes, mouth, or vagina, rinse immediately with water.
After your lice is gone, avoid intimate contact until the infection has been cleared. Avoid sharing hair brushes and combs. Also, avoid sharing hats, pillows, or bedding. The lice infection is highly contagious. Apply only those products prescribed by your physician.
Interaction with other drug
Spinosad applied topically is unlikely to interact with other drugs that you may take orally or by injection. Many drugs interact, however. Inform your physician of any medications you take. Included are prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Never start a new medicine without consulting your doctor.
