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Spinosad Topical

Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc. · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

Spinosad Topical is a Natural insecticide Small molecule drug developed by Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc.. It is currently FDA-approved for Head lice (Pediculosis capitis), Body lice (Pediculosis corporis), Pubic lice (Phthirus pubis). Also known as: Natroba, benzyl alcohol.

Spinosad is a natural insecticide that activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and GABA-gated chloride channels in insects, causing paralysis and death.

Spinosad Topical is a small molecule used to treat various conditions, including Pediculosis Capitis (Head Lice), Pediculosis, Blepharitis, and Scabies. It is available in different formulations, including Spinosad Creme Rinse and Spinosad, and has been compared to Permethrin 1% in clinical trials.

At a glance

Generic nameSpinosad Topical
Also known asNatroba, benzyl alcohol
SponsorCipher Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Drug classNatural insecticide
TargetNicotinic acetylcholine receptors; GABA-gated chloride channels
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaDermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Spinosad is a fermentation product of Saccharopolyspora spinosa that acts as a neurotoxin in arthropods. It binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and enhances GABA-gated chloride channel activity, leading to uncontrolled neuronal firing, paralysis, and death of target parasites. When applied topically, it kills lice and other ectoparasites on contact or ingestion.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

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Frequently asked questions about Spinosad Topical

What is Spinosad Topical?

Spinosad Topical is a Natural insecticide drug developed by Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc., indicated for Head lice (Pediculosis capitis), Body lice (Pediculosis corporis), Pubic lice (Phthirus pubis).

How does Spinosad Topical work?

Spinosad is a natural insecticide that activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and GABA-gated chloride channels in insects, causing paralysis and death.

What is Spinosad Topical used for?

Spinosad Topical is indicated for Head lice (Pediculosis capitis), Body lice (Pediculosis corporis), Pubic lice (Phthirus pubis).

Who makes Spinosad Topical?

Spinosad Topical is developed and marketed by Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc. (see full Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc. pipeline at /company/cipher-pharmaceuticals-inc).

Is Spinosad Topical also known as anything else?

Spinosad Topical is also known as Natroba, benzyl alcohol.

What drug class is Spinosad Topical in?

Spinosad Topical belongs to the Natural insecticide class. See all Natural insecticide drugs at /class/natural-insecticide.

What development phase is Spinosad Topical in?

Spinosad Topical is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Spinosad Topical?

Common side effects of Spinosad Topical include Application site erythema, Application site pruritus, Ocular irritation, Skin irritation.

What does Spinosad Topical target?

Spinosad Topical targets Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors; GABA-gated chloride channels and is a Natural insecticide.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing