What is the treatment of choice for lice?

The treatment of choice for lice is permethrin 1% (Nix). This topical insecticide is effective due to its ability to disrupt the nervous system of the lice, leading to their death. Permethrin is commonly recommended by healthcare providers because it is not only effective but also has a good safety profile when used as directed.

Other treatments, while they may have some efficacy, often do not match the established effectiveness and safety of permethrin. Ivermectin, for instance, is used in certain cases, especially when topical treatments fail, but it is not typically the first-line option. Benzyl alcohol can also be used to treat lice, but its mechanism of action and effectiveness can vary, which makes it less preferred compared to permethrin. Malt vinegar, while sometimes suggested for various scalp issues, does not have proven efficacy for treating lice infestations. This makes permethrin the most reliable and commonly prescribed treatment in clinical practice for lice.