Generic Elimite

Introduction

Elimite is a topical skin‑care medication approved for the treatment of parasitic infestations of the skin, chiefly scabies and pediculosis (head lice). Its active ingredient is permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts the nervous system of insects and mites. In the United Kingdom, Elimite is supplied by a licensed manufacturer and is classified within the skin‑care therapeutic group. The product is also used off‑label for certain ectoparasitic conditions when judged appropriate by a clinician.

What is Elimite?

Elimite is a cream or lotion that contains 5 % permethrin for scabies treatment and 1 % permethrin for head‑lice therapy. The formulation is produced by a pharmaceutical company that holds a marketing authorisation from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Elimite belongs to the class of synthetic pyrethroids, which are widely used as antiparasitic agents.

Well‑known brand‑name products that contain the same active compound include Nix, Kwell, and Lyclear. While those brands are marketed primarily in the United States and other regions, the permethrin molecule is identical, allowing Elimite to provide a comparable therapeutic effect at a lower cost.

How Elimite Works

Permethrin acts on the voltage‑gated sodium channels of the parasite’s nerve cells. By prolonging the opening of these channels, it causes a persistent depolarisation that leads to paralysis and death of the mite or louse. The effect is rapid; clinical improvement in itching and rash is often observed within 24–48 hours after application.

When applied to the skin, permethrin is poorly absorbed systemically, with plasma concentrations typically below 1 µg L⁻¹, meaning the therapeutic action is largely confined to the site of infestation. The drug is metabolised in the liver by esterases and eliminated primarily in the urine as inactive metabolites.

Conditions Treated with Elimite

• Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation) – a contagious skin disease characterised by intense nocturnal itching and a papular rash. In the UK, the prevalence of scabies is estimated at 2–4 % of the population, with higher rates in institutional settings.
• Pediculosis capitis (head lice) – infestation of the scalp hair with Pediculus humanus capitis. Head‑lice infestations affect up to 20 % of school‑age children in England each year.

These conditions respond well to permethrin because the drug targets the nervous system of the parasites, which are highly susceptible to pyrethroid toxicity. The single‑application regimen for scabies and the repeat‑application schedule for lice are both supported by clinical trials and NHS guidelines.

Who is Elimite For?

• Adults with confirmed scabies – especially those who can apply a full‑body cream and tolerate a night‑time leave‑on period of 8–12 hours.
• Children over 2 months of age – a 1 % lotion formulation is approved for head‑lice treatment; the 5 % cream for scabies may be used in children older than 2 years where safety data support it.
• Patients who prefer a non‑oral antiparasitic – individuals with contraindications to oral ivermectin or those who have experienced adverse reactions to other topical agents.

Elimite should be avoided in:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women – limited data exist, and safer alternatives are usually preferred.
• Infants younger than 2 months – the safety of permethrin at any concentration has not been established.
• Patients with known hypersensitivity to permethrin or any excipients in the formulation – severe allergic reactions may occur.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Mild skin irritation (burning, stinging, or itching at the application site)
• Redness or erythema
• Dryness or peeling of the treated skin

Rare

• Contact dermatitis with vesiculation
• Localised urticaria
• Hair loss at the site of application (particularly with repeated use for lice)

Serious

• Systemic allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) – extremely rare but requires immediate medical attention
• Neurotoxic effects (seizures, tremors) – reported only with massive overdose or misuse in infants

Drug‑Drug Interactions

Permethrin has negligible systemic absorption, so clinically relevant interactions are uncommon. Caution is advised when used concurrently with other topical agents containing irritants (e.g., salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide), as additive skin irritation may result.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Scabies (5 % cream) – Apply a thin layer over the entire body from the neck down, including the soles of the feet, and leave on for 8–12 hours (typically overnight). Wash off thoroughly in the morning. A second application 7–10 days later may be required for household contacts or persistent disease.
• Head lice (1 % lotion) – Apply to dry hair, ensuring coverage of the scalp and hair shafts. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Repeat the treatment 7 days later to eradicate any newly hatched lice.

If a dose is missed, re‑apply as soon as possible, but do not exceed the recommended total number of applications.

In the event of an overdose (e.g., ingestion or extensive skin application), seek emergency medical care. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or seizures. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

Precautions

• Do not apply to broken or inflamed skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
• Avoid simultaneous use of other antiparasitic creams unless directed by a clinician.
• Alcohol consumption does not affect topical permethrin, but excessive intake may impair judgement during application.
• Patients with liver or kidney disease should be monitored, although systemic exposure is minimal.

Buying Elimite from Our Online Pharmacy

Elimite can be purchased securely from our online pharmacy in the UK. We offer:

• Competitive pricing – our generic formulation is supplied near the manufacturer’s cost, providing a cost‑effective alternative to brand‑name products.
• Verified quality – each batch is sourced from licensed overseas pharmacies that meet MHRA‑equivalent standards, with batch numbers and expiry dates clearly labelled.
• Discreet, reliable delivery – options include express shipping (typically 7 days) and regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks), all packed in neutral packaging to protect privacy.
• Pharmacy‑broker service – we collaborate with internationally accredited suppliers, enabling patients who have limited access through conventional NHS routes to obtain the medication safely.

Our service respects patient confidentiality while ensuring that the medication reaches you promptly and in perfect condition.

FAQ

• Is Elimite available in both cream and lotion formulations?
  Yes. The 5 % permethrin cream is indicated for scabies, while a 1 % permethrin lotion is formulated for head‑lice treatment. Each preparation is optimised for its target condition.

• What is the recommended storage condition for Elimite?
  Store the product at controlled room temperature, between 15 °C and 30 °C. Protect it from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture, as these can degrade the active ingredient over time.

• Can Elimite be used on facial skin affected by scabies?
  The 5 % cream may be applied to the face, but only a thin layer and with caution, avoiding the eyes and mucous membranes. In infants and young children, a lower‑strength preparation or alternative therapy is preferred.

• Does the packaging include a patient information leaflet?
  Yes. Each unit comes with a printed leaflet that outlines dosing instructions, safety information, and storage guidance in accordance with UK regulatory requirements.

• Are there any known differences between European and American permethrin products?
  The active molecule is identical, but excipients such as emulsifiers or preservatives may vary to meet regional formulation standards. These differences do not affect the clinical efficacy for scabies or lice.

• Is permethrin detectable on standard drug‑testing panels?
  Permethrin is not a substance screened for in routine occupational or sports drug‑testing programmes, as it is a topical antiparasitic with negligible systemic absorption.

• Can Elimite be safely imported for personal use in the UK?
  Personal import of a single‑course supply of a medication that holds a valid UK marketing authorisation is generally permissible, provided the product is for personal, non‑commercial use and complies with customs regulations.

• What should be done if the cream contacts the eyes?
  Flush the eyes gently with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention promptly if irritation persists. Avoid eye contact during application.

• Does Elimite have any effect on pregnant women’s offspring when used topically?
  Current data are limited; therefore, topical permethrin is generally avoided during pregnancy unless the potential benefit outweighs the uncertain risk. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential.

• How long does it take for itching to improve after applying Elimite for scabies?
  Most patients notice a reduction in itching within 24–48 hours, although the rash may linger for several days as the skin heals. Persistent itching after the treatment period should be reviewed by a clinician.

• Are there any special considerations for travellers with scabies?
  When travelling, apply the cream before departure and keep the medication in a sealed container to protect it from temperature extremes. Re‑treat after returning if exposure to new contacts is likely.

• What inactive ingredients are present in the Elimite cream?
  The cream typically contains water, glycerol, propylene glycol, and a non‑ionic surfactant to aid skin absorption. Full ingredient lists are provided on the product label and accompanying leaflet.

Glossary

Synthetic pyrethroid

A class of chemical compounds modelled on natural pyrethrins, used for their insecticidal properties; permethrin is a widely prescribed member of this group.

Voltage‑gated sodium channel

A protein in nerve cell membranes that controls the flow of sodium ions; permethrin prolongs its opening, leading to paralysis of parasites.

Ectoparasite

An organism that lives on the external surface of a host, such as mites (scabies) or lice (head lice).

Dermal absorption

The process by which a substance penetrates the skin and enters systemic circulation; permethrin exhibits very low dermal absorption in humans.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Elimite is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Elimite for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.