scabinil lotion - Lindane (NA) medicine

G Scab Lotion: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety

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🏭 Lark Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Not established from the available information. Lindane crosses the placenta and may cause fetal harm. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for scabies; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 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

  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Severe dizziness or confusion
  • Extreme drowsiness or difficulty staying awake
  • Tremors or uncontrolled movements
  • Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Nausea, vomiting, or rapid heart rate after application

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is scabinil lotion used for?

This medicine is a topical scabicide containing lindane. It is used to treat scabies by killing the mites. Apply a thin layer to the skin from the neck down, leave for 8-12 hours, then wash off. It should not be used in infants, pregnant women, or people with seizures unless prescribed by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Lindane (NA)
  • Manufacturer: Lark Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 scabinil lotion के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से खुजली (स्केबीज) और जूँ के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। स्केबीज एक त्वचा की बीमारी है जो सूक्ष्म कीड़ों के कारण होती है और इसमें तेज खुजली और दाने होते हैं। यह दवा उन कीड़ों को मारती है और इससे राहत मिलती है। इसे त्वचा पर लगाया जाता है और डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार कुछ घंटों तक छोड़ दिया जाता है। यह दवा केवल बाहरी उपयोग के लिए है, इसे निगलना नहीं चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा पर जलन, खुजली, लालिमा या दाने शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी चक्कर आना, सिरदर्द या जी मिचलाना भी हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें दौरे पड़ना, त्वचा पर छाले पड़ना, या नर्वस सिस्टम से जुड़ी समस्याएं जैसे भ्रम, अत्यधिक नींद आना या कंपन शामिल हो सकते हैं। अगर ऐसा कुछ हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का इस्तेमाल केवल त्वचा पर करें और डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही करें। आंखों, मुंह या जननांगों पर न लगाएं। छोटे बच्चों, गर्भवती महिलाओं और दौरे की बीमारी वाले लोगों में इसका इस्तेमाल डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न करें। दवा लगाने के बाद हाथ अच्छी तरह धोएं। इलाज के दौरान कपड़े, बिस्तर और तौलिये गर्म पानी से धोएं ताकि संक्रमण दोबारा न हो।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 scabinil lotion Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Scabies","description":"This medicine is applied to the skin to kill scabies mites and their eggs, relieving itching and rash associated with the infestation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pediculosis (lice infestation)","description":"This medicine may be used to treat lice on the body or pubic area, although other agents are often preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cutaneous larva migrans","description":"Rarely, this medicine has been used off-label to treat creeping eruption caused by hookworm larvae, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Scabies

Also treats: Pediculosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Lindane (NA)
Brand Namescabinil lotion
ManufacturerLark Laboratories 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. Keep the container tightly closed.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Refer to the packaging for the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information. The World Health Organization does not currently list lindane as a first-line treatment for scabies due to safety concerns.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information. Consult local guidelines.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Apply this medicine exactly as prescribed, usually to the entire body from the neck down.
2
Leave the lotion on for the full recommended time, typically 8 to 12 hours, before washing it off.
3
Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to prevent re-infestation.
4
Treat all close contacts at the same time, even if they have no symptoms.
5
Avoid using this medicine on broken or irritated skin.
6
Do not use this medicine more often than prescribed, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
7
If you experience dizziness, headache, or seizures, stop using the medicine and seek medical help immediately.
8
Keep this medicine away from children and pets.
9
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.
10
After treatment, itching may persist for up to 2 weeks. This is normal and does not mean treatment failure.

🔍 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 bumps or burrows
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 for headaches; it may cause headache as a side effect.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionLindane is absorbed through intact skin, but the extent depends on the surface area treated, the concentration of the lotion, and the duration of contact. Absorption is increased when the skin is damaged, inflamed, or when the medicine is applied to areas with thin skin such as the scrotum or axillae. Systemic absorption can lead to measurable blood levels, especially in children and infants.
DistributionAfter absorption, lindane distributes to various tissues, with a preference for lipid-rich tissues such as adipose tissue and the brain. It can cross the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. The volume of distribution is not well characterized but is likely large due to its lipophilic nature.
Protein BindingLindane is highly bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin and lipoproteins. The exact percentage is not well established from the available information.
MetabolismLindane is metabolized in the liver, primarily through dechlorination and conjugation reactions. The metabolites include pentachlorocyclohexene and other chlorinated derivatives. Some metabolites may retain neurotoxic potential.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of lindane is not well established from the available information. It may vary widely among individuals and can be prolonged with repeated or excessive exposure.
ExcretionLindane and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and feces. The elimination is slow, and the drug can accumulate in fatty tissues with repeated use.
BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of lindane after topical application is not well established from the available information. It depends on the integrity of the skin and the amount applied.
Onset of ActionThe antiparasitic effect begins within hours after application, but relief from itching and skin lesions may take several days to weeks as the dead mites are shed and the allergic reaction subsides.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations after topical application are not well established from the available information. They are generally low but can be higher with damaged skin or excessive use.
Duration of ActionThe lethal effect on mites and lice is achieved within the recommended application time, usually 8 to 12 hours. However, residual activity on the skin is minimal, and re-infestation can occur if contact with the source continues.

How It Works

This medicine works by interfering with the function of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the nervous system of parasites. Lindane binds to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor chloride channel, blocking the influx of chloride ions. This leads to hyperexcitation of the parasite's nerve cells, causing paralysis and death of the mite or louse. Because mammals have a different GABA receptor subtype and lower sensitivity, the medicine is relatively selective for parasites when used topically. However, excessive absorption through the skin can affect the human nervous system, leading to neurotoxicity.

Mechanism Steps

1
Penetration into parasite: Lindane penetrates the exoskeleton of the mite or louse after topical application.
2
Binding to GABA-A receptor: Lindane binds to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor chloride channel in the parasite's nervous system.
3
Blockade of chloride influx: This binding prevents the normal influx of chloride ions, disrupting the inhibitory signals in the parasite's nerve cells.
4
Hyperexcitation and paralysis: Without chloride influx, the parasite's neurons become hyperexcitable, leading to uncontrolled firing, paralysis, and death.

💡 How to Take scabinil lotion

Strength: Lotion, strength not specified in the provided identity.

1Read the patient information leaflet carefully before use.
2Wash and dry the affected area gently.
3Apply a thin layer of the lotion to the skin from the neck down to the toes, avoiding the face, eyes, and genitals.
4Leave the lotion on for 8 to 12 hours as directed by your doctor.
5Wash off the lotion thoroughly with warm water and soap.
6Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to prevent re-infestation.
7Wash your hands thoroughly after application.
8Do not apply to broken or irritated skin.
9Do not cover the treated area with tight bandages or clothing.
10Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve after treatment.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is applied as a thin layer to the affected skin from the neck down to the toes, or as directed by your doctor. The lotion is typically left on for 8 to 12 hours and then washed off thoroughly. For scabies, a single application is often sufficient, but a second application may be needed after 7 days if symptoms persist. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, and renal and hepatic function. Do not use more than the prescribed amount or for longer than recommended.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine is generally not recommended for children under 2 years of age due to the risk of neurotoxicity. For older children, the dose is determined by the doctor based on weight and condition.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to the neurotoxic effects of this medicine. Use with caution and only under medical supervision. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for renal impairment. Use with caution and monitor for signs of toxicity. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor for signs of toxicity. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Do not exceed the prescribed amount or frequency.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Not applicable
This medicine is for topical use only and does not interact with food.
Grapefruit
Not applicable
No known interaction with topical lindane.

⏰ 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 scabinil lotion

✅ Common Side Effects

Skin irritation (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If it persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Itching (Common (5-10%))
May be due to the dying mites or a mild allergic reaction. If severe, consult your doctor.
Redness or rash (Common (5-10%))
Keep the area clean and avoid scratching. Consult your doctor if it spreads.
Dizziness (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stop using the medicine and consult your doctor if dizziness occurs.
Headache (Uncommon (1-5%))
Report to your doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention. Stop using the medicine.
Severe skin reactions (e.g., blistering, peeling) (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using and seek immediate medical care.
Neurotoxicity (confusion, extreme drowsiness, tremors) (Rare (<0.1%))
Discontinue use and seek emergency medical help.
Signs of systemic toxicity (nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Aplastic anemia
Report unusual fatigue, bruising, or infections to your doctor immediately.
Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis)
Seek emergency care if you experience swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
CNS depressants Major
Topical corticosteroids Moderate
Oil-based products Moderate
Antihistamines Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical agents containing lindane
  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Oil-based skin products

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and seizures. Avoid alcohol while using this medicine and for at least 24 hours after the last application.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to lindane or any component of the formulation.","Premature infants.","Patients with a history of seizures or uncontrolled epilepsy.","Use on inflamed, broken, or infected skin.","Use in children under 2 years of age (unless specifically prescribed).","Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless benefits outweigh risks)."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Do not swallow.","Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.","Do not apply to the face or genitals unless directed by a doctor.","Do not use on large areas of the body or for prolonged periods.","Do not cover the treated area with tight dressings or clothing.","Wash hands thoroughly after application.","Keep out of reach of children.","Do not use if the skin is broken or irritated.","Avoid use in patients with a history of seizures.","Use with caution in the elderly and in children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Lindane is excreted in breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the medicine, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with topical lindane can occur if large amounts are applied, if the skin is damaged, or if the medicine is accidentally ingested. Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, tremors, seizures, and respiratory depression. If overdose is suspected, stop using the medicine immediately and seek emergency medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion occurred recently. Monitor vital signs and neurological status closely.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is usually applied as a single treatment or for a short course. 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. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Use this medicine only on the skin and only as directed by your doctor. Do not apply it to the face, eyes, mouth, or genitals unless specifically instructed. Avoid contact with eyes; if accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use this medicine on children under 2 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor. Do not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor. Do not apply to open wounds, cuts, or irritated skin. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the lotion. Avoid covering the treated area with tight clothing or bandages. Do not use more than the prescribed amount or for longer than the recommended duration. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. If you accidentally swallow this medicine, seek emergency medical help immediately. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of neurotoxicity from this medicine. Use with extreme caution and only under close medical supervision. The dose should be individualized, and the medicine should be used for the shortest duration possible.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Lindane can cross the placenta and may harm the fetus. Alternative treatments with better safety profiles are available.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently had surgery, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should not be applied to surgical wounds or broken skin. Use with caution and only if clearly needed.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine is for topical use and does not typically affect dental procedures. However, inform your dentist if you are using this medicine, especially if you have a history of seizures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infestation.
🥗
Wash all clothing and bedding in hot water after treatment.
😴
Avoid close physical contact with others until treatment is complete.
💧
Keep your fingernails short to prevent skin damage from scratching.
🧘
Apply a soothing moisturizer after washing off the medicine to reduce irritation.
🌞
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to support skin healing.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating while the medicine is on your skin, as this may increase absorption. After washing off the medicine, you can resume normal activities. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid exercise until you feel normal.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support skin health.
Include foods high in vitamin C and zinc to promote healing.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol while using this medicine.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. If your work involves close contact with others, ensure you complete treatment to avoid spreading scabies. You may need to take a day off if you experience side effects.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience seizures, severe dizziness, confusion, tremors, or a severe skin reaction. Do not stop using it without consulting your doctor if you are in the middle of a treatment course, as incomplete treatment may lead to treatment failure.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended due to the risk of cumulative neurotoxicity. It should only be used for short courses as prescribed. Repeated use can lead to increased absorption and potential damage to the nervous system. If you require repeated treatments, consult your doctor to explore alternative therapies. Regular monitoring for neurological symptoms is advised if prolonged use is unavoidable.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Permethrin cream

A safer and often more effective first-line treatment for scabies.

Evidence: Well-established
Ivermectin tablets

Oral treatment for scabies, especially in cases where topical treatment is difficult.

Evidence: Well-established
Sulfur ointment

An older treatment that is safe for infants and pregnant women.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you have an active skin infection, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 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

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are crossing time zones, continue your treatment schedule as prescribed; for short-term treatments, timing is less critical. Declare the medicine to customs if required. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Do not leave it in a hot car.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 30-year-old man with intense itching and rash between fingers and wrists.
He was diagnosed with scabies and prescribed this medicine. He applied it from the neck down, left it on overnight, and washed it off in the morning. He also washed all his clothes and bedding in hot water. Within a week, the itching reduced significantly, and the rash cleared up. He reported mild skin irritation that resolved on its own.
💡 Lesson: Proper application and simultaneous washing of clothes and bedding are crucial to prevent re-infestation.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with scabies who had failed permethrin treatment.
She was prescribed this medicine as a second-line treatment. She applied it carefully and followed all instructions. She experienced mild dizziness for a few hours after application but it subsided. Her scabies resolved after two applications a week apart. She was advised not to use it again due to the risk of neurotoxicity.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be effective when other treatments fail, but it must be used with caution and only under medical supervision.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts killing mites within hours, but itching and rash may take up to 2 weeks to fully resolve as the dead mites are shed from the skin.

Q: Can I use this medicine on my face?

A: No, unless specifically instructed by your doctor. This medicine should not be applied to the face, eyes, or mucous membranes.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years of age due to the risk of neurotoxicity. For older children, consult a pediatrician.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally swallow this medicine?

A: Seek emergency medical help immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

Q: Do I need to wash my clothes and bedding?

A: Yes, wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any mites and prevent re-infestation.

🤔 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 this medicine during pregnancy?
  • Can I use this medicine if I have epilepsy?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while using this medicine?
  • Do I need to treat my family members too?
  • How do I clean my house to prevent re-infestation?

🔄 Substitutes for scabinil lotion

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used for any skin itch.
    Fact: This medicine is specifically for scabies and lice. It is not effective for other causes of itching and may cause harm if misused.
  • Myth: More medicine means faster cure.
    Fact: Using more than prescribed increases the risk of serious side effects without improving efficacy.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for babies.
    Fact: This medicine is not recommended for infants and young children due to the risk of neurotoxicity.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Lindane lotion (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • G Scab Lotion

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Permethrin","class":"Pyrethroid","efficacy":"High","safety":"Better safety profile, preferred in children and pregnancy","notes":"First-line treatment for scabies."},{"medicine":"Lindane","class":"Organochlorine","efficacy":"Moderate","safety":"Risk of neurotoxicity, restricted use","notes":"Second-line due to safety concerns."},{"medicine":"Crotamiton","class":"Scabicide","efficacy":"Moderate","safety":"Good safety profile","notes":"Less effective than permethrin."}]

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