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Benzyl Alcohol

Pronounced

"BEN-zil-ALC-ka-hol"

Uses

This medication is used to treat head lice, tiny insects that live on and irritate your scalp.

This drug is not recommended for use in children younger than 6 months.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using benzyl alcohol and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is for use on the hair and scalp only. Use this medication as directed by your doctor, usually for 2 treatments, one week apart. Since this medication does not get rid of the lice eggs, it is important to have the second treatment to treat any lice that might have hatched. To help you remember, mark the date on the calendar when you need to use this medication again.

An adult should help you apply this medication. Cover your eyes with a towel and keep your eyes tightly closed while the medication is being applied. The medication should be applied to dry hair and enough medication should be used to cover your entire scalp and hair (including behind the ears and on the back of the neck). Massage the medication into your hair and scalp. Avoid getting the medication in your eyes, mouth, nose, or vagina. If the medicine gets in any of these areas, flush with plenty of water. Leave the medication on your hair as directed by your doctor, usually for 10 minutes, then rinse with water. Wash your hands after using this medication. You can shampoo your hair right after treatment. A fine-tooth comb or lice comb may be used afterward to help remove the treated lice and lice eggs (nits).

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.