Last reviewed · How we verify
Permethrin Cream, 5%
Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that disrupts sodium channel function in the nervous system of parasitic arthropods, causing paralysis and death.
Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that disrupts sodium channel function in the nervous system of parasitic arthropods, causing paralysis and death. Used for Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation), Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), Body lice (Pediculus humanus humanus).
At a glance
| Generic name | Permethrin Cream, 5% |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Mayne Pharma International Pty Ltd |
| Drug class | Synthetic pyrethroid insecticide |
| Target | Voltage-gated sodium channels (arthropod nervous system) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Dermatology / Parasitology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Permethrin acts as a neurotoxin by binding to voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cell membranes of insects and mites, preventing normal sodium ion flow and causing repetitive nerve firing, paralysis, and ultimately death of the parasite. The drug is selectively toxic to arthropods due to their greater sensitivity to sodium channel disruption compared to mammals. It is applied topically to the skin where it kills scabies mites and lice on contact.
Approved indications
- Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation)
- Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis)
- Body lice (Pediculus humanus humanus)
- Pubic lice (Phthirus pubis)
Common side effects
- Pruritus (itching)
- Erythema (redness)
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Rash
- Contact dermatitis
Key clinical trials
- Ivermectin Safety in Small Children (PHASE2)
- Better Options for Lymphatic Filariasis Treatment (PHASE3)
- Comparison of Permethrin and Ivermectin in Children Greater Than 6 Yrs Age for Treatment of Scabies (PHASE2)
- Oral Ivermectin Versus Topical Permethrin to Treat Scabies in Children and Adults (PHASE3)
- Therapy for Scabies With Two Differently Concentrated Permethrin Creams (PHASE3)
- Efficacy Study Between Two Different Dosages of an Antiparasitic in Patients With Crusted Scabies (PHASE3)
- Comparison of Topical 5% Permethrin and Topical 10% Sulfur in the Treatment of Scabies (PHASE1)
- Ivermectin/ Permethrin for Scabies (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Permethrin Cream, 5% CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Permethrin Cream, 5% updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Mayne Pharma International Pty Ltd portfolio CI