Note: This document contains side effect information about permethrin topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name RID Home Lice Control Spray for Surfaces.
Applies to permethrin topical: topical cream, topical liquid, topical lotion.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, permethrin topical (the active ingredient contained in RID Home Lice Control Spray for Surfaces) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Other side effects
Some side effects of permethrin topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common or rare
- Burning, itching, numbness, rash, redness, stinging, swelling, or tingling of the scalp
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to permethrin topical: topical cream, topical kit, topical lotion, topical solution, topical spray.
Local
Local side effects have included mild and transient burning and stinging usually associated with the severity of infestation.[Ref]
Dermatologic
Dermatological side effects have included pruritus (7%), erythema (1% to 2%), and rash (1% to 2%).[Ref]
Nervous system
Nervous system side effects have included numbness and tingling (1% to 2%). Headache and dizziness have also been reported. Rare occurrences of seizure have been reported; however, an association with the use of permethrin topical (the active ingredient contained in RID Home Lice Control Spray for Surfaces) has not been confirmed.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects have included abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea and/or vomiting.[Ref]
General
General side effects have included fever.[Ref]
