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Abametapir (On the skin)

Abametapir (a-ba-MET-a-pir)

Treats head lice.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is generally considered safe for most people. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

How to Use This Medicine:

Lotion

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
  • Shake the bottle well before using it.
  • Use this medicine as directed on the hair and scalp only. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, and vagina. If it gets in your eyes, rinse them well with water.
  • Children will need an adult to apply the medicine for them.
  • Apply the medicine directly to dry hair. Start closest to the scalp and then apply outwards. Completely cover your entire scalp and all of your hair, from the roots to the tips. Use the whole tube of medicine, if needed.
  • Leave the medicine on the hair and scalp for 10 minutes.
  • Rinse your hair with warm water and dry with a clean towel. Comb your hair with a fine-toothed comb or special nit comb to remove dead lice and any nits (eggs) or nit shells. They look like small white dots.
  • You may shampoo your hair any time after your treatment ends.
  • After completing your dose of this medicine, do not use it again. Throw away any unused medicine. Do not flush it down the sink or toilet.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the bottle in an upright position. Do not refrigerate or freeze.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how abametapir works. Tell your doctor if you are using any other medicines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other skin problems.
  • Do not use this medicine more than once without talking first with your doctor.
  • Lice are easily spread from one person to another. To prevent the spread of lice:
    • Avoid direct head-to-head contact with persons who have lice.
    • Dry clean or wash your clothes, hats, and beddings in hot, soapy water. Dry them in a hot dryer.
    • Non-washable items can be dry cleaned or sealed inside a plastic bag for 2 weeks.
    • Disinfect personal care items, including combs or brushes by soaking them in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.
    • Do not share any hair-related personal items with anyone.
  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Changes in hair color
  • Eye irritation
  • Rash, redness, burning, irritation, itching, or swelling of the skin or scalp
  • Vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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