"The future will depend on our wisdom not to replace one poison with another."
National Pediculosis Association^®, Inc.

More about Lindane...

Visualize a six-sided saturated ring with a chloride atom attached to each carbon.
It is not a benzene ring. It is prepared from benzene; that is why one of its names is gamma benzene hexachloride.
Description: Lindane is a topical scabicide. Lindane is a potent insecticide. Lindane is used as an ectoparasitacide (ecto- on the outside, and parasitacide- parasite killer) in the treatment of scabies and pediculosis. Lindane is toxic to Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies) and its eggs; to Pediculus capitis (head louse), Pediculus corporis (body louse), and Pthirus pubis (crab louse) and possibly to their nits. Lindane is a prescription-only agent and was approved by the FDA in 1947. In April 1996, the FDA recommended that this agent only be used as a second-line treatment for patients who are intolerant to other treatments or who have not responded to other treatments. This recommendation is based on the risk of neurotoxicity associated with lindane, particularly in infants.

Mechanism of Action: Lindane is absorbed through the exoskeleton of parasites, presumably
causing excessive CNS stimulation, resulting in convulsions and death.

When absorbed systemically, lindane is a CNS stimulant, producing adverse effects similar to those of DDT.. Excessive stimulation of the CNS is probably caused by blockade of the effects of
gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Pharmacokinetics: Lindane is slowly and incompletely absorbed through intact skin, through the GI tract when ingested, and through mucous membranes when inhaled. Systemic lindane can be
identified, however, following topical administration. Absorption is greater through damaged or
occluded skin. Lindane is stored in body fats, induces hepatic microsomal enzymes, and is
metabolized in the liver. It is excreted in urine and feces.

Florida law allows the pharmacist to prescribe the shampoo only for hair lice, not body parasites.

http://www.nova.edu/~rfinkel/p2-14.htm

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