Prescription (Rx) to Over the Counter (OTC) switch is a process where a prescription drug is converted into an OTC/non-prescription drug. Recently the USFDA has approved ivermectin lotion 0.5%, prescribed for treating head lice as an OTC drug. In February 2012, the FDA had initially approved the lotion for patients above six months of age to treat a head lice infestation. Consumers are expected to read and follow the product instructions (drug fact label) before use. According to the label directions, ivermectin is for external use only.
It should be applied only on the scalp. Patients with dry hair who were previously using the prescription version of the lotion should communicate with their health care professional. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 6-12 million cases of head lice infestation occur every year in children between 3-11 years of age. Head…
