Treatment of Active Head Lice Infestation: First-Line Protocol
When a confirmed case of active head lice infestation is detected, a structured first-line treatment approach is recommended to achieve complete eradication of live lice from the scalp.
Treatment Goal
The clinical target is eradication of live head lice on the scalp — confirmed by the absence of any living louse at the end of a complete treatment course.
Approach Overview (Partial)
Management is based on an approved first-line topical insecticide applied in two courses, with a defined interval between applications. Age-based eligibility criteria determine which agent is used.
Specific agents, application technique, timing, and full eligibility criteria are detailed in the complete protocol.
References
- Treatment with an approved, properly applied, topical head lice insecticide (two applications 7 to 10 days apart) is recommended when a case of active infestation is detected.
- When there is evidence of treatment failure — detection of live lice — using a full course of topical treatment from a different class of medication is recommended.
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