Lindane

Products

Jacutin gel and emulsion are no longer commercially available. Alternatives for the treatment of scabies and head lice: see corresponding indications. In Germany, the “Jacutin Pedicul Fluid” is on the market. However, it contains dimeticone and not lindane.

Structure and properties

Lindane or 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (C6H6Cl6, Mr = 290.83 g/mol) is a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.

Effects

Lindane (ATC P03AB02) is insecticidal and antiparasitic by disrupting the nervous system of insects. It is neurotoxic.

Indications

Lindane has been used to treat infestations of head lice or crabs and scabies.

Application

Depending on the indication, according to the package insert of the finished drug product.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Pregnancy and lactation: see SmPC

Use with caution in:

  • Epilepsy
  • Reduced general health or severe concomitant diseases
  • Age-related immune deficiency
  • Severely damaged skin
  • Do not use on wounds, acutely inflamed or weeping skin.
  • Do not apply on the face
  • Do not take full baths for up to 12 hours after application and take only lukewarm showers, otherwise the absorption into the body is favored.
  • Do not inhale

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include local hypersensitivity reactions such as irritation, itching and redness. In case of overdose, the following occur: Agitation, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, hyperexcitability, tremors, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, dilated pupils, convulsions, bluish discoloration of the skin, loss of consciousness, and respiratory paralysis.