Article: Overtreating lice. (adapted from the FDA Consumer, June 1996)

Revised labeling now required by the Federal Drug Administration for lice and scabies treatments containing the insecticide lindane (gamma benzene hexachloride) encourages using the prescription products only if other approved therapies without lindane haven't worked.

The labeling also advises health care providers and parents not to confuse prolonged itching with a reinfestation by these parasitic pests. Even after successful treatment, itching can continue, due to residual inflammation in the skin, for a week or longer.

The FDA requires these revisions because of concerns that some parents may be unintentionally medicating beyond the ...

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