Drug Notes - Spinosad (On the skin) | Lima Memorial Health System

Spinosad (On the skin)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

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

Use this medicine as directed on the skin, 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.
Shake the bottle well before using.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
For head lice:
- Apply the medicine directly to dry hair. Start closest to the scalp and then apply outward. Completely cover your entire scalp and all of your hair, from roots to tips. Use the whole bottle of medicine, if needed.
- Leave the medicine on the hair and scalp for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, rinse your hair with warm water only. Dry with a clean towel. Comb hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove any nits (eggs) or nit shells. They look like small white dots.
For scabies:
- Apply the medicine directly to the skin from neck to the toes, including the soles of your feet.
- If you are getting bald, apply the medicine to the scalp, hairline, temples, and forehead.
- Allow the medicine to be absorbed on the skin for 10 minutes before getting dressed.
- Leave it on the skin for at least 6 hours before showering or bathing.
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.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any skin problems.
If you are breastfeeding, wash off this medicine with soap and water before breastfeeding.
Do not use this medicine on children younger than 6 months old because it contains benzyl alcohol which may cause serious reactions.
Check everyone in your household 7 days after treatment. If you find any live lice, tell your doctor.
Lice and scabies are easily spread from one person to another. To prevent the spread of lice or scabies, dry clean or wash your clothes, hats, and bedding in hot, soapy water. Dry in a hot dryer. Also wash personal care items, including brushes in hot, soapy water.
Do not use this medicine for a hair or scalp problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Burning, dryness, itching, pain, redness, rash, swelling, or soreness at the site of application
Redness of the eye or skin

Last Updated: 9/6/2024