SWIFTWATER, Pa. — Sanofi Pasteur has released Sklice Lotion, a topical treatment of head lice, to U.S. pharmacies.
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The Sanofi vaccines division said Monday that Sklice (ivermectin 0.5%), for use on the hair and scalp, is indicated for treating head lice infestations in patients age 6 months and older.
According to the company, Sklice was developed to meet the demand for an effective head lice treatment option that’s well-tolerated in children.
Head lice cases have been increasing in the United States, affecting an estimated 6 million to 12 million children ages 3 to 11 annually.
The lotion is designed to be used as part of an overall lice management program, including washing (in hot water) or dry-cleaning all recently worn clothing, hats, used bedding and towels, as well as washing personal care items such as combs, brushes and hair clips in hot water.
No nit combing is required, but a fine-tooth comb may be used to remove dead lice and nits.
Sklice was developed by Topaz Pharmaceuticals, which was acquired by Sanofi Pasteur in October 2011. The product was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in February 2012.
