Generic Acticin (Permethrin)

Introduction

Acticin is a topical medication that delivers the synthetic pyrethroid permethrin in a cream formulation (30 g tube). It belongs to the class of antiparasitic agents used to eradicate skin-borne ectoparasites. The product is indicated for the treatment of scabies (caused by Sarcoptes scabiei) and for the eradication of pediculosis capitis (head lice). Permethrin works by disrupting the nervous system of the parasite, leading to rapid paralysis and death. In addition to its approved uses, clinicians sometimes employ permethrin for other mite-related conditions, although such applications have not received formal regulatory approval.

What is Acticin?

Acticin is a cream that contains permethrin as its sole active ingredient. Permethrin is a synthetic analogue of the natural insecticide pyrethrin, and it is marketed worldwide under several brand names, including Elimite, Nix, and Kwell. Acticin is produced by a pharmaceutical manufacturer that follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and holds the necessary marketing authorization in the jurisdictions where it is sold. The 30 g tube is the standard unit for adult treatment courses.

How Acticin Works

Permethrin exerts its antiparasitic effect by binding to voltage-gated sodium channels on the nerve membranes of insects and mites. This binding forces the channels to remain open, causing prolonged depolarization, loss of motor control, paralysis, and ultimately death of the parasite. Human skin cells lack the specific sodium-channel subtypes that are highly sensitive to permethrin, which accounts for the drug’s high topical selectivity. After application, permethrin remains active on the skin surface for several hours; systemic absorption is minimal, with most of the dose eliminated unchanged in the feces.

Conditions Treated with Acticin

• Scabies (cutaneous infestation with Sarcoptes scabiei) - A single full-body application of 5 % permethrin cream to clean, dry skin from the neck down, left on for 8-14 hours, eradicates adult mites and eggs. Clinical trials have demonstrated cure rates of 95 % or higher when applied correctly.

• Pediculosis capitis (head lice) - A 1 % permethrin lotion applied to dry hair and scalp, left for 10 minutes and then rinsed, eliminates live lice and hatches most eggs. Studies show >90 % efficacy after a single treatment, with a repeat application after 7-10 days recommended for residual nits.

Both indications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Acticin

• Dermatitis caused by Demodex spp. - Small case series have reported improvement in papulopustular rosacea when permethrin 5 % cream was applied nightly for two weeks. Evidence remains limited, and the use is not approved by regulatory agencies.

• Lash (eyelash) mites (Demodex folliculorum) - Some dermatologists use diluted permethrin (.5 %) applied to the lash line to reduce mite load in blepharitis. Controlled trials are lacking, and ocular safety has not been formally established.

• Scabies crustosa in immunocompromised patients - Adjunctive weekly permethrin applications have been described in case reports to control severe, crusted scabies. These reports emphasize the need for concurrent systemic therapy and close monitoring.

Important: Off-label applications have not undergone the rigorous efficacy and safety assessment required for approval. Patients should discuss any such use with a qualified healthcare provider before initiating treatment.

Is Acticin the Right Medication for You?

Acticin is appropriate for:

• Adults (≥12 years) with confirmed scabies or head-lice infestation.
• Individuals without known hypersensitivity to permethrin or any cream excipients.
• Patients who can apply the medication correctly and adhere to the recommended contact time.

Contraindications or cautions include:

• Known allergy to permethrin, pyrethroids, or any component of the cream.
• Open wounds, severe skin infections, or extensive eczema at the application site, because damaged skin may increase systemic absorption.
• Pregnancy and lactation - While animal data have not shown teratogenicity, the FDA categorizes permethrin as “C” for topical use; clinicians should weigh benefits against potential risks.

If any of these conditions are present, alternative therapies should be considered.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Localized burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
• Mild erythema or dry skin desquamation.

Rare

• Contact dermatitis presenting as pruritic, vesicular rash.
• Temporary hair loss (telogen effluvium) when applied to scalp hair for lice.

Serious

• Systemic toxicity - Very high systemic exposure (e.g., large surface area application under occlusion) can cause tremor, seizures, or respiratory depression, although such events are exceedingly rare.
• Severe allergic reactions - Angioedema or anaphylaxis may occur in hypersensitive individuals and require immediate medical attention.

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Concomitant use of other topical medications (e.g., corticosteroids, antifungals) may increase skin irritation.
• Co-application with strong occlusive dressings can enhance permethrin absorption; avoid covering the treated area unless directed by a clinician.

Drug-Food Interactions

• No significant oral food interactions are known because absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is negligible when the product is used as intended.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Scabies (5 % cream)

1. Wash the entire body with mild soap and dry thoroughly.
2. Apply a thin, even layer of cream from the neck down, including between fingers and toes.
3. Leave on for 8-14 hours (overnight is practical).
4. Wash off with warm water; repeat a second application 7 days later to eliminate newly hatched mites.

Head lice (1 % lotion)

1. Apply lotion to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage of scalp and hair shafts.
2. Leave for 10 minutes; then rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Comb out nits with a fine-toothed comb. A second treatment 7-10 days after the first is advised to catch any surviving eggs.

Missed Dose

• If a dose is missed within the recommended contact time (e.g., before washing off), re-apply as soon as possible, provided the total exposure does not exceed 24 hours. If the scheduled wash time has already passed, perform a new treatment following the full dosing instructions.

Overdose

• Accidental ingestion or extensive application over large body surfaces warrants immediate medical evaluation. Symptoms of systemic toxicity (tremor, seizures, difficulty breathing) require emergency care. Contact a poison control center or go to the nearest emergency department.

Practical Precautions

• Do not use heat sources (e.g., heating pads) on treated skin.
• Avoid alcohol-based lotions or gels on the same area for 24 hours.
• Do not operate heavy machinery or drive until any dizziness or visual disturbances resolve.

FAQ

• What should I do if the cream causes a burning sensation? The mild burning is a common, transient effect. Rinse the area with lukewarm water after the recommended contact time. If the sensation persists for more than 30 minutes or worsens, seek medical advice.

• Can I apply Acticin to children under 12 years old? The product is formally approved for use in individuals aged 12 years and older. For younger children, a pediatric formulation of permethrin (usually 1 % lotion) under clinician supervision is recommended.

• Is it safe to use Acticin while breastfeeding? Only a very small amount of permethrin is absorbed systemically, and negligible quantities appear in breast milk. However, the FDA assigns a pregnancy category C for topical use; discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.

• How long can I store the cream before it expires? Unopened Acticin tubes remain stable for up to 24 months when stored at room temperature (15-30 °C) away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Will waterproof swimwear affect the treatment of scabies? Occlusive clothing can increase absorption. After applying the cream, wear loose, breathable garments and avoid tight, waterproof suits for the duration of the treatment period.

• Can I use Acticin on my pets if they have mange? Permethrin is highly toxic to cats and certain dog breeds. Do not apply the human formulation to animals without veterinary instructions.

• Does Acticin interfere with drug testing? Permethrin is not a prohibited substance in standard occupational or sports drug screens, and topical use is unlikely to produce a positive result.

• What is the difference between the 5 % and 1 % formulations? The 5 % strength is optimized for scabies, requiring deeper skin penetration, whereas the 1 % lotion is designed for head lice, providing sufficient activity on hair shafts with reduced irritation risk.

• Can I travel internationally with Acticin in my luggage? Yes, provided the container is sealed and complies with the destination country’s regulations for topical medications. Carry the product label and any required import documentation.

• Why does the skin sometimes appear lighter after treatment? Temporary post-inflammatory hypopigmentation can occur after inflammation resolves. The change typically fades within several weeks without intervention.

Glossary

Pyrethroid

A class of synthetic chemicals modeled after natural pyrethrins; they act on insect nerve cells, causing paralysis.

Ectoparasite

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

Occlusion

The covering of skin with a non-breathable layer (e.g., plastic wrap) that can increase topical drug absorption.

Neurotoxic

Referring to a substance that interferes with the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Buying Acticin from Our Online Pharmacy

Acticin can be obtained safely through our online pharmacy. We source the cream directly from licensed, GMP-certified manufacturers, ensuring the product meets the same quality standards as those sold in brick-and-mortar outlets.

• Affordable pricing - Because we operate as a pharmacy broker service, we pass near-manufacturer costs to you, reducing the retail price without compromising quality.
• Verified quality - Every batch is verified by accredited quality-control laboratories before it leaves the supplier.
• Discreet, reliable delivery - Packages are shipped in unmarked, tamper-evident envelopes, with standard delivery in 7 days (express) or approximately 3 weeks via regular airmail, depending on your location.
• Privacy-focused service - We handle all orders confidentially, storing only the information necessary to process and ship your medication.

For patients who encounter limited availability, high out-of-pocket costs, or insurance restrictions, our online pharmacy offers a practical, secure alternative to obtain Acticin promptly.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Acticin is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. Treatment choices, including any off-label applications, should be made under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Readers are presumed to be competent adults capable of making informed health decisions. Our online pharmacy supplies Acticin to individuals who may experience difficulty accessing the product through conventional pharmacy channels or who seek cost-effective generic options. Always discuss with a healthcare provider before initiating, modifying, or discontinuing any medication.