Scafer Lotion: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety
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 (difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
- Severe skin blistering or peeling
- Signs of secondary bacterial infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever)
- Persistent itching or rash that worsens after treatment
- No improvement after 2 weeks of treatment
- Accidental ingestion of the lotion
- Eye contact with the lotion causing severe irritation
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is Scafer Lotion used for?
This medicine is a topical lotion containing cetrimide (0.5% w/v) and permethrin (5% w/v). It is primarily used to treat scabies, a skin infestation caused by mites. Permethrin kills the mites, while cetrimide provides antiseptic action. Apply as directed by your doctor, usually leaving it on for 8-14 hours before washing off.
- Generic Name: Cetrimide (0.5% w/v) + Permethrin (5% w/v)
- Manufacturer: Rekin Pharma Pvt. Ltd.
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 Scafer Lotion के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से खुजली (स्केबीज़) के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। स्केबीज़ एक संक्रामक त्वचा रोग है जो सूक्ष्म कीड़ों (माइट्स) के कारण होता है। इस दवा में सेट्रीमाइड और परमेथ्रिन दो सक्रिय तत्व होते हैं। परमेथ्रिन कीड़ों को मारता है, जबकि सेट्रीमाइड त्वचा को संक्रमण से बचाता है। यह दवा लोशन के रूप में उपलब्ध है और इसे त्वचा पर लगाया जाता है। डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार इसे गर्दन से नीचे पूरे शरीर पर लगाएं और 8-14 घंटे बाद धो लें। यह दवा बच्चों और वयस्कों दोनों के लिए उपयुक्त है, लेकिन 2 महीने से छोटे बच्चों में डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न लगाएं।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा में हल्की जलन, खुजली, लालिमा या जलन की भावना शामिल हो सकती है। ये आमतौर पर अस्थायी होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है जैसे सूजन, छाले, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई। ऐसी स्थिति में तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग केवल बाहरी त्वचा पर करें। आंखों, मुंह और अन्य श्लेष्मा झिल्ली के संपर्क में न आने दें। यदि संपर्क हो जाए तो तुरंत पानी से धो लें। टूटी या घायल त्वचा पर न लगाएं। उपयोग के बाद हाथ धो लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा को ठंडी और सूखी जगह पर रखें, धूप से बचाएं।
💊 Scafer Lotion Uses & Benefits
- [{"condition":"Scabies","description":"This medicine is used to treat scabies infestation by killing the mites and their eggs.
- It helps relieve itching and prevents the spread of infestation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pediculosis (lice infestation)","description":"This medicine may be used to treat lice infestations on the body, although permethrin is more commonly used for head lice.
- The cetrimide component provides antiseptic action.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Bacterial skin infections","description":"The cetrimide component may provide antiseptic benefits for minor skin infections, but this is not a primary indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Scabies
Also treats: Pediculosis, Secondary bacterial skin infections
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cetrimide (0.5% w/v) + Permethrin (5% w/v) |
| Brand Name | Scafer Lotion |
| Manufacturer | Rekin Pharma Pvt. Ltd. |
| Packaging / Form | bottle of 60 ml Lotion (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Topical |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep the container tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, unless otherwise specified on the packaging. |
| WHO Guideline | Permethrin 5% is recommended by the World Health Organization for the treatment of scabies. The combination with cetrimide is not specifically mentioned in WHO guidelines. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works through the combined actions of its two active ingredients. Permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid, acts on the nerve cell membranes of parasites such as scabies mites and lice. It binds to sodium channels and prolongs their opening, leading to repetitive nerve firing, paralysis, and death of the parasite. Cetrimide is a quaternary ammonium antiseptic that disrupts bacterial cell membranes, leading to leakage of cellular contents and bacterial death. Together, they provide antiparasitic and antiseptic effects.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take Scafer Lotion
Strength: Lotion containing cetrimide 0.5% w/v and permethrin 5% w/v.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | For scabies: Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the entire body from the neck down to the toes, ensuring coverage of all skin surfaces including the webs of fingers, under nails, wrists, armpits, buttocks, and genital area. Leave on for 8-14 hours, then wash off thoroughly with soap and water. A single application is usually sufficient, but a second application after 7 days may be recommended by your doctor. For lice: Apply to affected areas and surrounding skin, leave on for 8-12 hours, then wash off. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, and response to treatment. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. For children over 2 months, the same application instructions as adults may be followed, but a doctor's guidance is essential. |
| Elderly Dosage | No specific dosage adjustments are required for elderly patients. However, elderly individuals may have more sensitive skin and should use with caution. Consult a doctor for personalized advice. |
| Renal Impairment | No dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No dosage adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | Not applicable for topical use. Apply as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended application frequency. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of Scafer Lotion
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to cetrimide, permethrin, or any component of the formulation","Use on broken or inflamed skin","Use in the eyes or on mucous membranes","Infants under 2 months of age (unless directed by a doctor)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["For external use only. Do not ingest.","Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.","Do not apply to large areas of the body or for prolonged periods without medical advice.","Do not use on children under 2 months of age unless prescribed by a doctor.","Consult a doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of skin allergies.","If symptoms persist after treatment, consult a doctor as re-infestation or treatment failure may occur.","Discontinue use if severe irritation or allergic reaction develops."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Permethrin is considered safe for use during breastfeeding when applied to the skin. However, avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant exposure. Consult your doctor for guidance.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine is unlikely due to its topical route. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of permethrin overdose may include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Contact a poison control center or emergency department if ingestion is suspected.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is usually applied as a single application or as directed by your doctor. 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
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 inflamed skin. Do not cover the treated area with tight bandages or dressings unless instructed by a doctor. Wash hands thoroughly after applying this medicine. Avoid inhaling the lotion. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use this medicine for any condition other than that prescribed by your doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. If symptoms persist or worsen after treatment, consult your doctor. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. This medicine is for individual use only; do not share it with others.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may have more sensitive skin and should use this medicine with caution. Monitor for signs of irritation. No dosage adjustment is required, but consult a doctor for personalized advice.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Permethrin is considered safe during pregnancy, but the combination with cetrimide should be used under medical supervision.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently undergone surgery, consult your doctor before applying this medicine to surgical wounds or nearby areas. Avoid applying to broken or healing skin unless directed.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine is for topical use and does not affect dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medications you are using.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
There are no specific exercise restrictions while using this medicine. However, avoid excessive sweating or activities that may cause the lotion to be washed off prematurely. If you exercise, ensure the medicine has been on for the recommended duration before washing it off.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is applied topically and is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness (rare), avoid these activities until you feel normal. You can continue your daily activities, but avoid close contact with others until treatment is complete to prevent spread.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop using this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience severe skin irritation, allergic reactions, or if your symptoms do not improve after the recommended treatment period. Do not stop treatment prematurely unless advised by your doctor, as this may lead to treatment failure.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended unless directed by a doctor. Prolonged use may increase the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. If you require repeated treatments, consult your doctor to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. There is no evidence of systemic toxicity with proper topical use.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An alternative scabicide that can be used if permethrin is not effective or not tolerated.
Evidence: Well-establishedUsed for scabies and to relieve itching, but less effective than permethrin.
Evidence: ModerateAn older treatment for scabies, often used in infants and pregnant women.
Evidence: LimitedAn oral medication for scabies, used in cases resistant to topical treatments.
Evidence: Well-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 or freeze
✅ DO
Keep in the original container with the cap tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children and pets
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the 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 direct sunlight. If you are traveling across time zones, continue with your regular application schedule as prescribed. For international travel, check the customs regulations of your destination regarding prescription medications. Always keep the medicine in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The medicine starts killing mites soon after application, but itching may persist for up to 2-4 weeks as your skin reacts to the dead mites. If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, consult your doctor.
A: This medicine is generally not recommended for the face unless specifically directed by a doctor. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
A: This medicine can be used in children over 2 months of age under medical supervision. For infants under 2 months, consult a pediatrician.
A: Permethrin is considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed. However, consult your doctor before use.
A: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: Yes, wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry on high heat to kill any mites and prevent re-infestation.
A: This medicine may be used for lice infestations, but permethrin 5% is more commonly used for scabies. Consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.
A: Common side effects include mild skin irritation, itching, redness, or burning. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Scabies is caused by poor hygiene.
Fact: Scabies is caused by a mite infestation and can affect anyone, regardless of hygiene. - Myth: You only need to treat the itchy areas.
Fact: For scabies, the entire body from the neck down must be treated to kill all mites. - Myth: Scabies will go away on its own.
Fact: Scabies requires treatment with scabicidal medication to eradicate the mites. - Myth: You can stop treatment once itching stops.
Fact: Itching may persist for weeks after successful treatment; complete the full course as prescribed.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Permethrin 5% lotion
- Cetrimide 0.5% solution
Brand Alternatives
- Permethrin 5% w/v lotion (various brands)
- Cetrimide 0.5% w/v lotion (various brands)