Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) is a topical combination containing Cetrimide and Lindane (also known as Gamma Benzene Hexachloride). It is primarily used to treat parasitic skin infestations, specifically scabies and lice (pediculosis). Lindane is a pediculicide and scabicide that works by eliminating the parasites, while Cetrimide is an antiseptic that helps cleanse the skin and may reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections. This medicine is available in various topical forms, including lotions, creams, emulsions, shampoos, and medicated soaps.

Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) is a specialised dermatological treatment used to eliminate parasites that live on the human skin or scalp. It is most commonly prescribed when other first-line treatments for scabies or lice have not been effective or cannot be used.

The medicine contains two active agents with different actions. Lindane (Gamma Benzene Hexachloride) is an organochlorine compound. Once applied, it is absorbed through the exoskeleton of parasites like the scabies mite (Sarcoptes scabiei) or head and body lice. It acts on the parasite’s nervous system, causing overstimulation and eventual death of the organism. Cetrimide is a quaternary ammonium antiseptic and surfactant. It helps to clean the affected area by emulsifying oils and debris, while also providing a broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect to help prevent infections that can occur from scratching the skin.

Because Lindane can be absorbed through human skin into the bloodstream, it is intended for careful, limited application. It is typically used as a single treatment that is left on the skin or hair for a specific amount of time before being thoroughly washed off. Systematic exposure must be minimised to avoid potential effects on the human nervous system.

Overall, Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) is a potent treatment for parasitic infestations. To ensure safety, it must be used strictly under medical supervision and only according to the specific directions provided by a healthcare professional.

Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) may be indicated by your doctor for:

Scabies

• Treatment of skin infestations caused by the scabies mite.

Pediculosis Capitis

• Treatment of head lice and their eggs (nits).

Pediculosis Corporis

• Management of body lice infestations.

Pediculosis Pubis

• Treatment of pubic lice (crabs).

Secondary Infection Prevention

• To help keep infested skin clean and reduce bacterial risk.

Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) may provide benefits such as:

• Reduces itching, irritation, and discomfort associated with scabies and lice infestations.

• Kills scabies mites and lice, including their eggs (nits), to clear parasitic infestations.

• Helps prevent secondary bacterial infections by keeping affected skin clean.

• Provides dual action: antiparasitic (Lindane) plus antiseptic cleansing (Cetrimide).

• Available in multiple topical forms (lotions, creams, emulsions, shampoos, medicated soaps) for ease of application.

• Often effective with a single, carefully supervised course of treatment.

Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) must be used with care, as it can cause localized and, in some cases, systemic side effects.

Common side effects of Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) may include

• Mild skin irritation or redness

• Itching

• A dry or burning sensation on the skin

• Mild rash at the application site

Uncommon side effects of Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) may include

• Numbness or tingling of the skin (paresthesia)

• Contact dermatitis

• Dizziness or headache

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include

• Seizures or convulsions (highest risk with prolonged or repeated use)

• Severe dizziness, confusion, or clumsiness

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing)

• Severe skin blistering or peeling

Always consult your doctor if you notice any unusual or neurological symptoms while using Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride).

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended amount or frequency.

Lotions/Creams/Emulsions

• Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin, even layer over the skin, covering all infested regions. Leave on for the prescribed duration, then wash off thoroughly.

Shampoos/Medicated Soaps

• Apply to wet hair or skin. Lather well and leave for the instructed time before rinsing completely.

Single Course Treatment

• Usually applied once. Do not repeat unless specifically directed, as repeated use increases risk of toxicity.

Avoid Occlusion

• Do not cover treated areas with tight bandages or plastic dressings unless advised by your doctor.

Protect Sensitive Areas

• Prevent contact with eyes, mouth, mucous membranes, and broken or inflamed skin.

Hygiene Measures

• Wash hands thoroughly after application. Change clothing, bedding, and personal items after treatment to prevent reinfestation.

Avoid Contamination

• Keep the container tightly closed and do not share the medicine with others.

Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) works by combining the effects of two active ingredients that act in different but complementary ways. Lindane (Gamma Benzene Hexachloride) enters the parasite through its outer layer and interferes with the way its nerves communicate. It blocks the action of gamma‑aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical messenger that normally helps calm nerve activity. Without this signal, the parasite’s nervous system becomes overstimulated, which prevents it from surviving.

Cetrimide supports treatment by acting as an antiseptic and surfactant. It helps cleanse the skin, break down oils and debris, and reduce bacterial growth. This is especially important because itching and scratching from scabies or lice can irritate the skin and increase the chance of infection.

Together, these actions help remove the infestation while also keeping the skin clean and protected. For patients, this means relief from itching and irritation, along with reduced risk of secondary infection, when the medicine is used exactly as directed under medical supervision.

• Treat all household members and close contacts at the same time to prevent re-infestation, even if they have no symptoms.

• Wash all recently used clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (60°C) and dry them in a hot dryer.

• Do not apply this medicine to the face or eyes. If it gets in your eyes, rinse with water immediately.

• Itching may continue for several weeks after successful treatment; this is usually an allergic reaction to the dead mites and does not always mean the treatment failed.

• Do not use other skin creams or oils at the same time as Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride), as they can increase the absorption of Lindane.

Store Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) at room temperature in a dry place.

• Keep the bottle or tube tightly closed.

• Keep away from direct heat and sunlight.

• CRITICAL: Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date.

• General Diet (NO INTERACTION): Food and drinks do not typically affect this topical treatment.

• Oily Foods (CAUTION): If accidentally swallowed, do not eat fatty or oily foods, as they can speed up the absorption of Lindane into your body.

• Seizure-lowering Medications (SEVERE): Tell your doctor if you take medicines that increase seizure risk, such as certain antidepressants (bupropion), antipsychotics, or some antibiotics.

• Other Topical Products (MODERATE): Avoid using other soaps, lotions, or oils on the treated area, as they may increase the absorption of Lindane through the skin.

• Seizure Disorders (SEVERE): Do not use Cetrimide + Lindane (gamma Benzene Hexachloride) if you have a history of seizures or epilepsy, as Lindane can trigger convulsions.

• Extensively Damaged Skin (SEVERE): Do not apply to skin with severe sores, crusting, or open wounds, as this significantly increases the risk of toxic absorption.

• Premature Infants (SEVERE): This medicine must not be used on premature babies due to the high risk of nervous system toxicity.

• Elderly/Low Body Weight (MODERATE): Use with extreme caution, as thinner skin or lower body fat can increase the risk of the medicine entering the bloodstream.

An overdose occurs if the medicine is left on for too long, applied too frequently, or accidentally swallowed. This can lead to serious nervous system toxicity, including seizures. If an overdose is suspected or if the medicine is swallowed, seek emergency medical care immediately.

This medicine is typically used as a single application. If you miss your scheduled treatment time, apply it as soon as you can, provided you can leave it on for the full required duration before washing. Do not use it more often than prescribed.