• Kills mites lice and eggs effectively
  • Alternative to permethrin-based treatments
  • Prevents reinfestation with full contact treatment

How it works?

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Overview

Struggling with relentless itching caused by scabies or head lice? Derbac-M Lotion is a clinically proven treatment that kills both mites and lice - along with their eggs - to restore comfort and stop the cycle of re-infestation.
Its fast-acting formula targets the parasites directly on the skin and scalp, offering a trusted alternative when permethrin-based creams (like Lyclear) aren’t suitable.

This treatment requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Derbac-M Lotion


Derbac-M Lotion contains malathion 0.5%, an insecticidal and antiparasitic medicine that works by disrupting the nervous system of mites and lice, killing both the adult parasites and their eggs (nits).
It is used to treat:

  • Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) – a contagious skin infestation that causes severe itching and rash.
  • Head lice and pubic lice – when other treatments have failed or aren’t tolerated.


Derbac-M is especially effective when permethrin isn’t suitable due to allergy or resistance. It can be safely used on both the skin and scalp, and is suitable for adults and children over 6 months old.

Because it destroys mites, lice, and eggs in one application, it helps prevent reinfestation when all contacts are treated together.

Directions

Follow your prescriber’s instructions carefully.

For Scabies:

  1. Apply the lotion evenly over the entire body from the neck down, paying special attention to folds of skin, under nails, between fingers and toes, and the soles of the feet.
  2. In infants and elderly people, also treat the face, ears, and scalp, avoiding eyes and mouth.
  3. Leave on for 24 hours, then wash off thoroughly and change into clean clothes.
  4. Reapply after 7 days to kill any newly hatched mites.
  5. Wash bedding, clothing, and towels at 60°C after each application.


For Head or Pubic Lice:

  1. Apply the lotion to dry hair or affected area, ensuring full coverage of scalp and roots.
  2. Leave for 12 hours (overnight), then rinse and comb to remove dead lice and eggs.
  3. Repeat after 7 days if necessary.


Always treat all close contacts at the same time to prevent reinfection.

Side Effects

Most people tolerate Derbac-M well. Side effects, if they occur, are usually mild and short-lived.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild skin irritation or redness
  • Itching or tingling after application
  • Dryness or slight stinging on sensitive skin


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Flaking or temporary rash
  • Burning sensation or mild swelling at the application site


Rare but serious (seek urgent medical advice):

  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Widespread redness, blistering, or intense itching that worsens after use


Disclaimer: This is not a full list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, stop using Derbac-M and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

Do not use Derbac-M Lotion if you:

  • Are allergic to malathion or any other ingredients in the product
  • Have broken, inflamed, or infected skin
  • Are applying near the eyes or mucous membranes


Use with caution if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding – your prescriber will advise if suitable
  • Have asthma or breathing difficulties, as the vapour may irritate the lungs


Avoid flames, lit cigarettes, or heat sources during application and while the lotion is on the skin - Derbac-M is flammable.


For external use only.

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