canomite 5% lotion - Permethrin (5% w/v) medicine

Agscab Lotion (Permethrin 5% w/v): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Canopy Healthcare Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 23, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing.
  • Severe skin reaction: blistering, peeling, or severe rash.
  • Signs of infection: increased pain, swelling, redness, pus, or fever.
  • No improvement after 2 weeks of treatment.
  • Symptoms worsen or spread to other areas.
  • Accidental ingestion of the lotion.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is canomite 5% lotion used for?

This medicine is a topical lotion containing permethrin 5% w/v, used to treat scabies by killing the mites and their eggs. It is applied from the neck down, left on for 8-14 hours, and then washed off.

  • Generic Name: Permethrin
  • Manufacturer: Canopy Healthcare Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 canomite 5% lotion के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा परमेथ्रिन 5% w/v युक्त एक टॉपिकल लोशन है, जिसका उपयोग खुजली (स्केबीज) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह स्केबीज के कारण होने वाले कीड़ों को मारती है और खुजली व दाने को ठीक करती है। इसे गर्दन से नीचे पूरे शरीर पर लगाया जाता है और 8-14 घंटे तक छोड़ दिया जाता है, फिर धो लिया जाता है। यह दवा बच्चों और वयस्कों दोनों के लिए उपयुक्त है, लेकिन 2 महीने से छोटे बच्चों में इसका उपयोग नहीं करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में लगाने की जगह पर खुजली, लालिमा, झनझनाहट या जलन शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी त्वचा सूखी हो सकती है या दाने निकल सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या गंभीर दाने हों तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल बाहरी उपयोग के लिए है। आंखों, मुंह और अन्य श्लेष्मा झिल्ली के संपर्क से बचें। टूटी या घायल त्वचा पर न लगाएं। 2 महीने से छोटे बच्चों में डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना उपयोग न करें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक या अधिक बार उपयोग न करें। लगाने के बाद हाथ धो लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। गर्भवती महिलाएं उपयोग से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं स्तन क्षेत्र पर न लगाएं। यदि लक्षण बने रहें तो डॉक्टर से मिलें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 canomite 5% lotion Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Scabies","description":"This medicine is used to treat scabies, a skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite.
  • It kills the mites and their eggs, relieving itching and rash.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Lice infestation (pediculosis)","description":"Permethrin 5% lotion may be used to treat lice infestations, although lower strengths are typically used for head lice.
  • It kills lice and their eggs.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cutaneous larva migrans","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to treat creeping eruption caused by hookworm larvae.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Scabies

Also treats: Pediculosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Permethrin
Brand NameAlscab Soap
ManufacturerCanopy Healthcare Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassDERMA
Action ClassEctoparasiticides
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineWHO recommends permethrin 5% cream or lotion as a first-line treatment for scabies.
ICMR GuidelineICMR guidelines also recommend permethrin 5% as a first-line treatment for scabies in India.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Apply this medicine to clean, dry skin from the neck down, covering all body parts including the soles of the feet and between fingers and toes.
2
Leave the lotion on for 8 to 14 hours, usually overnight, then wash it off thoroughly with soap and water.
3
Treat all household members and close contacts at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms, to prevent reinfestation.
4
Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry on high heat to kill any remaining mites.
5
Itching may persist for up to 2-4 weeks after treatment; this does not mean treatment failure. Use a moisturizer and consult your doctor if it is severe.
6
Do not use this medicine more often than prescribed. A single application is usually sufficient.
7
Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Intense itching, especially at night
This medicine is commonly prescribed for scabies, which causes intense itching.
Likely Use
✅
Rash with small red bumps or burrow lines
This medicine is used to treat scabies rash.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Headache
This medicine is not used for headaches.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSystemic absorption of permethrin after topical application is minimal. Typically, less than 2% of the applied dose is absorbed through intact skin.
DistributionDue to minimal absorption, distribution to body tissues is limited. Any absorbed permethrin is rapidly distributed and metabolized.
Protein BindingPermethrin is highly bound to plasma proteins, but specific data are not well established.
MetabolismPermethrin is metabolized in the liver by esterases and cytochrome P450 enzymes into inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of permethrin is not well established from available information.
ExcretionMetabolites of permethrin are primarily excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityBioavailability after topical application is very low due to minimal percutaneous absorption.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action against mites is not immediate; it may take several hours to days for the full effect. Symptom relief (itching) may take up to 2-4 weeks as the skin heals.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe acaricidal effect persists on the skin for some time, but the exact duration is not well established. A single application is usually sufficient for scabies.

How It Works

This medicine works by interfering with the function of voltage-gated sodium channels in the nerve cells of mites and lice. Permethrin binds to these channels and prolongs their opening, leading to continuous sodium influx and repetitive nerve firing. This causes paralysis and eventual death of the parasite. The medicine has low toxicity to humans because human sodium channels are less sensitive to permethrin at therapeutic concentrations.

Mechanism Steps

1
Penetration into parasite: Permethrin penetrates the exoskeleton of the mite or louse after topical application.
2
Binding to sodium channels: Permethrin binds to voltage-gated sodium channels in the parasite's nerve cells.
3
Prolonged channel opening: This binding delays the closure of sodium channels, causing prolonged depolarization.
4
Repetitive nerve firing: The sustained depolarization leads to repetitive firing of the nerve, causing hyperexcitation.
5
Paralysis and death: The parasite's nervous system becomes overwhelmed, leading to paralysis and death.

💡 How to Take canomite 5% lotion

Strength: Lotion containing permethrin 5% w/v.

1Read the patient information leaflet provided with this medicine.
2Wash and dry the affected area gently.
3Apply a thin layer of the lotion to the skin from the neck down to the toes, covering all areas including folds, between fingers and toes, and under nails.
4For infants, also apply to the scalp and forehead, avoiding eyes and mouth.
5Leave the lotion on for 8 to 14 hours (usually overnight).
6Wash off thoroughly with soap and water after the specified time.
7Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
8Treat all household members and close contacts at the same time to prevent re-infestation.
9Wash hands after application unless hands are being treated.
10Do not apply to broken skin or near mucous membranes.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageFor scabies, the usual adult dose is to apply a thin layer of this medicine to all areas of the body from the neck down to the toes, including the soles of the feet, and leave it on for 8 to 14 hours, then wash off thoroughly. For lice, apply to affected area and leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosageFor children 2 months and older, apply a thin layer to the entire body from the neck down, leave on for 8 to 14 hours, then wash off. For infants, include the scalp and forehead, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Pediatric dosing is not established from available information for children under 2 months. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients can use this medicine as directed for adults. However, they may be more susceptible to skin irritation. Monitor for any adverse effects. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is necessary for renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is necessary for hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not applicable as this medicine is typically used as a single application. Do not apply more than once daily unless directed by a doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Not applicable
This medicine is for topical use and does not interact with food.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of canomite 5% lotion

✅ Common Side Effects

Application site itching (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If persistent or severe, consult your doctor.
Application site redness (Common (5-10%))
May be a sign of irritation. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching. Consult if it worsens.
Application site tingling or stinging (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. If it persists, contact your doctor.
Dry skin (Uncommon (1-5%))
Use a moisturizer after treatment. Consult if severe.
Rash (Uncommon (1-5%))
If rash spreads or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
Severe skin irritation or blistering (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop use and consult a doctor immediately.
Secondary infection at application site (Rare (<0.1%))
If you notice increased pain, swelling, pus, or fever, seek medical attention.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Headache
Usually resolves. Consult if persistent.
Dizziness
Avoid driving if affected. Consult if it continues.
Nausea
Usually transient. Consult if severe.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to permethrin or any component of the formulation","Use on broken or inflamed skin","Use in children under 2 months of age"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Do not ingest.","Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.","Do not apply to the face or scalp unless directed by a doctor.","Do not use on large areas of the body without medical advice.","Keep away from children.","If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical help immediately.","Do not use for prolonged periods without consulting a doctor.","If symptoms persist after 2 weeks, consult a doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Permethrin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts, but it is generally considered safe for nursing mothers. Apply to the affected area and avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant exposure. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose from topical application is unlikely due to low absorption. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is usually applied as a single dose. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consult your doctor if unsure.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Do not use on children under 2 months of age unless directed by a doctor. Do not use more than the prescribed amount or more often than directed. Wash hands thoroughly after applying. Avoid inhaling the lotion. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if you are allergic to permethrin or any ingredient. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use. Nursing mothers should avoid applying to the breast area. If symptoms persist after treatment, consult a doctor. Do not share this medicine with others. Do not use for any other condition without medical advice.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have thinner skin and are more prone to skin irritation. Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects. No dosage adjustment is needed.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Permethrin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but individual circumstances may vary.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently had surgery, consult your doctor before applying this medicine to surgical wounds or nearby areas. Avoid applying to broken skin or incisions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine is for topical use and does not affect dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are using.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry on high heat to kill mites.
🥗
Avoid close physical contact with others until treatment is complete.
😴
Keep your nails short to prevent scratching and secondary infection.
💧
Apply a moisturizer to soothe dry skin after treatment.
🧘
Maintain good personal hygiene, but remember scabies can affect anyone.
🌞
Treat all household members and close contacts simultaneously.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

There are no specific exercise restrictions while using this medicine. However, avoid strenuous activities that cause excessive sweating immediately after application, as it may reduce the effectiveness or cause irritation. Wait until the lotion is washed off before resuming normal activities.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated to support skin health.
Include foods rich in vitamin C and zinc to promote skin healing.
Avoid excessive alcohol, which can worsen itching.
Eat a balanced diet to support immune function.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is applied topically and left on for 8-14 hours, usually overnight. It may cause mild skin irritation but generally does not affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness (rare), avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel alert.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine and consult a doctor if you experience severe allergic reactions, severe skin irritation, or if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks. Do not stop treatment prematurely unless advised by your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term effects of topical permethrin are not well established because it is typically used as a single application. Repeated use may increase the risk of skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis. There is no evidence of systemic toxicity from topical use. If repeated treatments are needed, consult a doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Crotamiton cream

An alternative topical acaricide for scabies, especially for those allergic to permethrin.

Evidence: Established
Oral ivermectin

Used for crusted scabies or when topical treatment fails.

Evidence: Well-established
Sulfur ointment

An older alternative, safe for infants and pregnant women.

Evidence: Established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccinations while using this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case customs or security ask for it. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you are traveling across time zones, this medicine is usually applied as a single dose, so time zone adjustments are not typically needed. However, if you are on a multiple-dose regimen, consult your doctor for guidance. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if possible, and ensure it is not exposed to extreme temperatures.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 30-year-old woman with intense itching and rash between fingers and wrists.
She was diagnosed with scabies and prescribed this medicine. She applied it from neck down, left it overnight, and washed it off in the morning. She also treated her family members and washed all bedding. The itching gradually decreased over two weeks, and the rash cleared completely.
💡 Lesson: Proper application and treating all contacts are essential to eliminate scabies and prevent recurrence.
👤 A 5-year-old child with scabies lesions on the trunk and arms.
The child was treated with this medicine applied from neck down, including the scalp, and left on for 12 hours. The parents were advised to wash all toys and clothes. The child's symptoms improved within a week, and no side effects were observed.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is safe and effective for children over 2 months when used as directed.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts killing mites soon after application, but itching and rash may take 2-4 weeks to fully resolve as the skin heals.

Q: Can I use this medicine on my face?

A: It is generally not recommended to apply on the face unless directed by a doctor. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

Q: Is it safe for children?

A: Yes, it is safe for children over 2 months of age when used as directed. Consult a pediatrician for children under 2 months.

Q: Can I use it during pregnancy?

A: Permethrin is considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed. However, consult your doctor before use.

Q: What if I miss a dose?

A: This medicine is usually a single application. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine on my face?
  • How long does it take to cure scabies?
  • Is it safe to use during pregnancy?
  • Can I use it on my child?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while using this medicine?
  • Does it interact with other medicines?

🔄 Substitutes for canomite 5% lotion

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Scabies is caused by poor hygiene.
    Fact: Scabies can affect anyone, regardless of hygiene. It is caused by a mite that burrows into the skin.
  • Myth: You only need to treat the person with symptoms.
    Fact: All household members and close contacts should be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
  • Myth: Permethrin lotion works immediately.
    Fact: Itching may persist for up to 2-4 weeks after treatment as the skin heals, even though the mites are killed.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Permethrin 5% lotion (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Permethrin 5% lotion (various brands)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Permethrin 5% lotion","class":"Pyrethroid","route":"Topical","primary_use":"Scabies","notes":"First-line, safe for adults and children >2 months"},{"medicine":"Crotamiton 10% cream","class":"Acaricide","route":"Topical","primary_use":"Scabies","notes":"Alternative for those allergic to permethrin"},{"medicine":"Ivermectin (oral)","class":"Avermectin","route":"Oral","primary_use":"Scabies","notes":"Used for crusted scabies or when topical fails"}]

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