Benzyl alcohol lotion approved for head lice

The FDA has approved benzyl alcohol lotion 5% (from Sciele Pharma) for the treatment of head lice (Pediculosis capitis) infestation in patients ≥6 months of age.

This approval was based on results from two placebo-controlled clinical studies of benzyl alcohol 5% lotion in 628 patients ≥6 months of age with active head lice infestation. Patients received two 10-minute treatments of either benzyl alcohol lotion or a topical placebo, one week apart. Of the patients treated with benzyl alcohol lotion, more than 75% were lice free 14 days after the final treatment.

For more information call (800) 461-3696 or visit www.sciele.com.