Permethrin most effective scabies treatment

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Administration of topical permethrin is the most effective treatment for scabies, according to a study.

The research pooled data from 20 trials, with a total number of 2,392 participants across the world.

Findings showed that where it was possible to compare outcome, permethrin had lower or identical success rates than other treatments.

Permethrin had a lower failure rate than ivermectin and crotamiton. It was also better for treatment of itch symptoms than crotamiton.

Authors wrote: 'Administration of topical ivermectin appears to be the most effective treatment for scabies.'

Journal of Advanced Nursing (2008) 63: 144-145