Permethrin 5% Cream is a topical medicine used to treat scabies (a skin infestation caused by tiny mites). It helps kill the mites and their eggs, reducing symptoms such as intense itching, redness, and skin irritation. 

Permethrin works by affecting the nervous system of scabies mites, causing them to die. It is applied to the skin as directed by a doctor. Some people may experience mild and temporary burning, stinging, redness, itching, dryness, or irritation after application.  

This cream is used to treat:

1. Kill scabies mites and their eggs  
2. Itching and skin irritation caused by scabies   

More Common

1. Mild burning or stinging  
2. Itching  
3. Redness  
4. Dryness  
5. Skin irritation  
6. Tingling at the application site             

Less Common 

1. Skin rash  
2. Swelling  
3. Persistent or severe irritation  
4. Increased skin sensitivity  
5. Other skin reactions  
6. Signs of an allergic reaction            

Permethrin is an antiparasitic medicine. It paralyzes the nervous system of scabies mites, resulting in their death. It also helps kill the eggs of the mites. 

By reducing the number of mites on the skin, Permethrin 5% Cream helps control the infestation and gradually reduces the itching and irritation associated with scabies.

Allergy or Hypersensitivity

If you are allergic to permethrin, other pyrethrins or pyrethroids, or any ingredient in the cream, tell your doctor before using it.

Eyes and sensitive areas

Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nose, and other sensitive areas. If the cream accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Damaged skin

Do not apply the cream to severely damaged or inflamed skin unless your doctor has advised you to do so.

Children

Use Permethrin 5% Cream in children only according to the age-specific instructions provided by the doctor or product label. Extra care may be needed when treating young children.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor before using this medicine. Use it only when recommended.

Breastfeeding

If you are breastfeeding, speak with your doctor before using the cream. Avoid applying it to the breast or nipple area unless specifically advised.

Persistent Itching

Itching may continue after treatment even when the mites have been eliminated. If new burrows, new skin lesions, or worsening symptoms appear, consult your doctor.

Reinfection

Scabies can spread between people through close contact. Household members and close contacts may need medical evaluation or treatment, depending on the situation. 

As this medicine is applied to the skin, significant food interactions are not expected when it is used as directed.

Avoid taking Permethrin 5 % Cream with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Permethrin: 3-phenoxybenzyl (1RS,3RS;1RS,3SR)-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate 

Daily dose

Take Permethrin 5 % Cream exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

Using too much of the cream may increase burning, irritation, or other local side effects. If you accidentally swallow a large amount or develop severe symptoms after excessive use, seek medical attention promptly.

1. Store the medicine at room temperature. 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture. 
3. Keep out of reach of children 

1. Clean and gently dry the affected area. 
2. Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected skin as directed by your doctor. 
3. Gently spread the cream over the affected area. 
4. Wash your hands after applying it unless your hands are the treated area. 
5. Do not apply more cream than recommended. Using extra medicine will not make the infection clear faster and may increase the risk of side effects. 
6. Do not stop or extend treatment on your own without speaking with your doctor.     

What are the uses Permethrin 5% Cream? 

Permethrin 5% Cream is primarily used to treat scabies, a skin infestation caused by mites. It kills scabies mites and their eggs and helps control the itching and skin irritation associated with the infestation.

What are the recommended application instructions for Permethrin 5% Cream during pregnancy? 

If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before using Permethrin 5% Cream. If prescribed, apply it exactly as directed and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other sensitive areas. Do not use more cream or repeat the treatment without medical advice. 

How long does Permethrin 5% Cream take to show effectiveness? 

Permethrin starts working after application by killing scabies mites. However, itching may continue for a few weeks even after successful treatment because the skin can remain irritated. If new burrows or rashes continue to appear or symptoms worsen, consult your doctor.

Are there common side effects associated with Permethrin 5% Cream? 

Yes. Some people may experience mild burning, stinging, itching, redness, dryness, or skin irritation at the application site. These effects are usually temporary. Seek medical advice if irritation is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling or other signs of an allergic reaction.

How to properly apply Permethrin 5% Cream for best results? 

Apply a thin, even layer to the areas recommended by your doctor or the product instructions. Leave it on for the recommended duration and wash it off as directed. Avoid applying extra cream, and follow the complete treatment instructions. Close household contacts may also need evaluation or treatment to help prevent reinfection. 

Where can I buy Permethrin 5% Cream online in India? 

You can buy Permethrin 5% Cream online in India from SayaCare at up to 80% off along with a quality-assured report with every medicine. You can check the available products, compare prices, and place an order for convenient doorstep delivery. 

Reference  

1. PubChem. Permethrin [Internet]. Nih.gov. PubChem; 2026 [cited 2026 Sept 16]. Available from 
2. Permethrin: Scabies Treatment & Side Effects [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. [cited 2026 Sept 16]. Available from 
3. Permethrin (topical route) [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2024 [cited 2026 Sept 16]. Available from 
4. Permethrin 5% w/w Cream [Internet]. [cited 2026 Sept 16]. Available from