Effective Medications for Scabies in Patients with Limited Mobility

Q: Effective Medications for Scabies in Patients with Limited Mobility

Hello： "Scabies" is a skin condition caused by an infestation of the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. <br>The mite is a tiny parasite that lives on the surface of the skin, approximately the size of a pinhead, making it nearly invisible to the naked eye. <br>It survives by feeding on skin

Medications for scabies?

Hello: What medications are available for a comatose patient with scabies? Can b.b lotion be mixed with a moisturizer? Since the skin is relatively dry, are ulex and eurax the same active ingredient despite having different brand names?

Xiao Zhu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/09

Dr. Wu Huiling reply Pharmacology

Hello: "Scabies" is a skin condition caused by an infestation of the Sarcoptes scabiei mite.
The mite is a tiny parasite that lives on the surface of the skin, approximately the size of a pinhead, making it nearly invisible to the naked eye.
It survives by feeding on skin flakes, which makes it highly contagious.
Common topical treatments for scabies include γ-Benzene hexachloride (Lindane) and Benzyl benzoate.

In principle, if itching is due to dry skin, moisturizers and skin lotions can help alleviate symptoms.
If there is a localized infection (such as scabies), it should be treated accordingly.
If the itching is caused by medication, the offending drug should be discontinued.
It is important to keep the skin clean and dry, and to frequently change positions to avoid prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin.
If the itching is severe, oral medications may be used to relieve discomfort.

Additionally, it is crucial to follow the physician's instructions for applying medication, ensuring that every inch of skin from the neck down to the toes is thoroughly treated after bathing each day.
Besides medication, personal clothing, bed linens, and sheets should ideally be washed at high temperatures (greater than 60 degrees Celsius).
If washing is not feasible, items can be ironed or sealed in plastic bags for two weeks before use.

Scabies is highly contagious, so anyone who has had close contact with an infected person should also be treated.
The medications Ulex and Eurax are entirely different; they only sound somewhat similar.
They differ significantly in terms of composition, usage, and therapeutic purposes.
Ulex is an oral antibiotic, while Eurax is a topical ointment used for eczema, urticaria, pruritus, scabies, and neurodermatitis.
Given the importance of medication safety, you must consult a pharmacist before using any medication.

Reply Date: 2003/12/09

More Info

When it comes to treating scabies, especially in patients with limited mobility, there are several effective medications available. Scabies is caused by an infestation of the skin by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, leading to intense itching and a rash. The treatment primarily involves topical or systemic medications that kill the mites and alleviate symptoms.

Effective Medications for Scabies:
1. Permethrin Cream (5%): This is the first-line treatment for scabies. It is a topical insecticide that is applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for 8-14 hours before washing off. It is safe for use in infants and pregnant women, making it a versatile option.

2. Ivermectin: This is an oral medication that is particularly useful for patients who may have difficulty applying topical treatments due to limited mobility. Ivermectin is typically given as a single dose, and in some cases, a second dose may be required after one to two weeks. It is effective for crusted scabies, which is a more severe form of the infestation.

3. Crotamiton (Eurax): This is another topical treatment that can be used for scabies. It is applied to the skin and can help relieve itching. However, it may not be as effective as permethrin or ivermectin.

4. Benzyl Benzoate (BB Lotion): This is a topical treatment that can be effective against scabies. It is often used in cases where other treatments are not suitable. However, it can be irritating to the skin, especially in patients with sensitive or dry skin.

Regarding your question about mixing BB lotion with a moisturizer, it is generally advisable to apply BB lotion directly to the affected areas without mixing it with other products. This is because combining it with a moisturizer may dilute its effectiveness. However, after the treatment has been completed and the skin has been washed, applying a moisturizer can help alleviate dryness and irritation caused by the medication.

As for Ulex and Eurax, both contain the same active ingredient, crotamiton, but they may have different formulations or inactive ingredients. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding which product to use and how to apply it.

Additional Considerations:
- Limited Mobility: For patients with limited mobility, caregivers should assist with the application of topical treatments to ensure that the medication is applied thoroughly and effectively. It may be beneficial to use a sponge or cloth to apply the cream or lotion to hard-to-reach areas.

- Hygiene and Environment: In addition to treating the affected individual, it is crucial to address the environment to prevent reinfestation. This includes washing bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and vacuuming living areas to remove any mites.

- Follow-Up: After treatment, it is important to monitor for any persistent symptoms. Itching may continue for several weeks even after successful treatment due to an allergic reaction to the dead mites. If symptoms persist or worsen, a follow-up consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.

In conclusion, effective treatment options for scabies in patients with limited mobility include permethrin cream, ivermectin, crotamiton, and benzyl benzoate. Careful application and consideration of the patient's skin condition are essential for successful treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment plans.

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