Acticin: Targeted Relief for Persistent Scabies Infestations
Acticin
Acticin (permethrin) 5% cream is a topical scabicidal medication formulated for the eradication of Sarcoptes scabiei mites and their eggs. As a synthetic pyrethroid, it exhibits potent acaricidal and ovicidal properties, disrupting the sodium channel function in the parasite’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. Clinically recommended as a first-line treatment, it provides a non-greasy, minimally invasive therapeutic option with a well-established efficacy and safety profile. Proper application is critical for achieving complete parasitological clearance and preventing recurrence.
Features
- Contains 5% permethrin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Formulated in a water-washable, fragrance-free cream base
- Exhibits both acaricidal and ovicidal activity
- Single-application treatment regimen in most cases
- Stable at room temperature; does not require refrigeration
- Available by prescription in 60g tubes
Benefits
- Achieves high cure rates, often exceeding 95% with correct application
- Rapidly alleviates intense pruritus associated with scabies infestation
- Minimizes risk of secondary bacterial infections from scratching
- Prevents household and close-contact transmission post-treatment
- Reduces treatment burden with typically one required application
- Suitable for use in patients aged 2 months and older
Common use
Acticin is primarily indicated for the treatment of scabies infestations caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. It is also used off-label for the treatment of pediculosis pubis (pubic lice) and head lice when standard treatments have failed. The medication works through direct contact with parasites and eggs, making thorough application essential. Diagnosis should be confirmed through microscopic identification of mites, eggs, or fecal pellets before treatment initiation to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary medication exposure.
Dosage and direction
For scabies treatment:
Thoroughly massage Acticin cream into the skin from the chin down to the toes, paying particular attention to folds and creases (axillae, interdigital spaces, groin, under nails). Apply after bathing and when the skin is cool and dry. Leave on for 8-14 hours before washing off thoroughly with soap and water. A single application is usually sufficient. Re-evaluate after 14 days; if live mites are observed, a second application may be necessary.
Special populations:
For elderly patients or those with compromised skin integrity, consider shorter application times under medical supervision. For children older than 2 months, apply as in adults but avoid excessive application to minimize systemic absorption.
Precautions
- For external use only; avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and urethral meatus
- Do not apply to acutely inflamed or broken skin unless directed by a physician
- May cause transient burning, stinging, or tingling upon application
- Clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water or sealed in plastic bags for 72 hours after treatment
- Close contacts should be evaluated and treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation
- Use with caution in patients with known sensitivity to chrysanthemums or ragweed
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to permethrin, other pyrethroids, or pyrethrins
- Known allergy to any component of the formulation
- Should not be used on premature infants due to increased skin permeability and potential for systemic toxicity
- Contraindicated in patients with widespread eczematous or bullous disorders
Possible side effects
Most adverse reactions are mild and transient. Common local reactions include:
- Pruritus (approximately 10-20% of patients)
- Erythema and mild burning sensation (7-15%)
- Tingling or numbness at application site (5-10%)
- Rash or skin edema (2-5%)
Rare systemic effects (<1%) may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Respiratory difficulty (in cases of hypersensitivity)
Drug interaction
No significant pharmacokinetic drug interactions have been documented. However:
- Concomitant use with other topical medications may increase skin irritation
- Use with other neurotoxic agents theoretically could potentiate systemic effects, though this is unlikely with proper topical use
- Oil-based products applied beforehand may reduce absorption and efficacy
Missed dose
As Acticin is typically administered as a single application, the concept of a “missed dose” does not apply in the conventional sense. If the application is washed off prematurely (before 8 hours), reapply immediately and maintain contact for the full recommended duration. If discovered near the end of the recommended exposure time, simply wash off at the scheduled time.
Overdose
Topical overdose may result in increased adverse local effects including severe erythema, burning, and paresthesia. Accidental ingestion may cause systemic effects including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, seizures. Gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment are recommended for ingestion. There is no specific antidote; manage supportively.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused product 30 days after opening to prevent contamination and degradation.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. The prescribing physician should be informed of all medical conditions and concurrent medications. Individual results may vary based on compliance, severity of infestation, and host factors.
Reviews
“After struggling with misdiagnosed scabies for three months, Acticin provided complete resolution with one application. The itching subsided within 48 hours.” - Verified Patient (Age 34)
“As a dermatologist, I find Acticin remains the gold standard for scabies treatment due to its excellent efficacy profile and generally good tolerability compared to alternatives.” - Dr. E. Lawson, MD
“Effective but be prepared for temporary increased itching after application. This is actually a sign the medication is working against the mites.” - Verified Patient (Age 41)