Abametapir for the Treatment of Head Lice: A Drug Review

Woods, Alexander D.; Porter, Caroline L; Feldman, Steven R.

doi:10.1177/10600280211027968

Cited by 10 publications

(8 citation statements)

References 15 publications

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“…Essential oils have also been used for controlling head lice [ 101 ]. Abametapir offers a safe and effective treatment option for head lice infestation [ 102 ]. Lindane is no longer recommended due to safety concerns [ 103 ].…”

Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Human pediculosis, a global public health problem

Yao

Deng

et al. 2022

Infect Dis Poverty

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Background Human pediculosis is caused by hematophagous lice, which are transmitted between individuals via direct and/or indirect contact. Despite the public health importance of louse infestation, information concerning the global burden of pediculosis and the epidemiological landscape of louse-borne diseases is limited. The aim of this review was to summarize the biology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and control of lice infestation in humans. We also discussed the latest advances in molecular taxonomy and molecular genetics of lice. Methods We searched five electronic bibliographic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, CNKI, VIP Chinese Journal Database, and Wanfang Data) and followed a standard approach for conducting scoping reviews to identify studies on various aspects of human lice. Relevant information reported in the identified studies were collated, categorized, and summarized. Results A total of 282 studies were eligible for the final review. Human pediculosis remains a public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that head lice and body lice should be considered conspecific, with different genotypes and ecotypes. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial (mt) cytb gene sequences identified six distinct clades of lice worldwide. In addition to the direct effect on human health, lice can serve as vectors of disease-causing pathogens. The use of insecticides plays a crucial role in the treatment and prevention of louse infestation. Genome sequencing has advanced our knowledge of the genetic structure and evolutionary biology of human lice. Conclusions Human pediculosis is a public health problem affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly in developing countries. More progress can be made if emphasis is placed on the use of emerging omics technologies to elucidate the mechanisms that underpin the physiological, ecological, and evolutionary aspects of lice. Graphic Abstract

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Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Human pediculosis, a global public health problem

Yao

Deng

et al. 2022

Infect Dis Poverty

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“…Abametapir, through chelation of zinc, copper and iron, can inhibit various metalloproteinases that are critical in louse egg development, egg hatching and louse survival. 56 , 92 – 94 As such, abametapir is both pediculicidal and ovicidal. In addition, abametapir 0.74% lotion contains benzyl alcohol, which enhances its ovicidal effect.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…13 Generally, only one treatment is necessary. 94 The 0.74% abametapir lotion is applied to the scalp and dry hair and left on for 10 minutes and then rinsed off with warm water. 13 The product has a favourable safety profile and is well tolerated.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…13 The product has a favourable safety profile and is well tolerated. 92 – 94 Side effects include mild scalp erythema, burning sensation, rash and contact dermatitis at the site of application. 92 – 94 As the product contains benzyl alcohol, it should not be used in infants younger than 6 months of age.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“… 92 – 94 Side effects include mild scalp erythema, burning sensation, rash and contact dermatitis at the site of application. 92 – 94 As the product contains benzyl alcohol, it should not be used in infants younger than 6 months of age. 13 At present, the product is not commercially available.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Paediatrics: how to manage pediculosis capitis

Leung¹,

Lam²,

Leong³

et al. 2022

DIC

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Background Pediculosis capitis is a common human parasitic infestation in childhood. This article aims to provide a narrative updated review on the management of pediculosis capitis. Methods A PubMed search was performed with Clinical Queries using the key terms “pediculosis capitis” OR “head lice” OR “head louse”. The search strategy included clinical trials, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, observational studies and reviews published within the past 10 years. The search was restricted to articles published in English literature. The information retrieved from the search was used in the compilation of the present article. Results Topical permethrin and pyrethrin formulated with piperonyl butoxide are the pediculicides of choice in areas where resistance to these products is low. When resistance to these products is suspected based on local levels of resistance or when treatment with these products fails despite their correct use, and reinfestation does not seem to be responsible, other topical treatment options include malathion, benzyl alcohol, dimethicone, spinosad and ivermectin. Wet combing should be considered for children younger than 2 years. Oral ivermectin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole should be reserved for patients who do not respond to appropriate topical pediculicides. Conclusion Many topical pediculicides are effective for the treatment of pediculosis capitis. The use of some of these pediculicides is limited for safety reasons, especially in children younger than 2 years. Resistance to pediculicides, especially those with a neurotoxic mode of action, is another concern which may limit the use of some of these pediculicides. New products should be evaluated for effectiveness and safety. Wet combing is time-consuming and should not be used as the sole intervention in the general population.

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