Summary
It is estimated that over 6 million cases of head lice occur in the United States each year. While the use of topical OTC treatments and physical nit removal remain first-line therapies, the increasing frequency of pyrethroid resistance has led to the need for pediatric health care providers to be aware of alternative treatments. A number of agents are available, but caution should be used in selecting the appropriate agent based on patient age and the presence of underlying medical conditions.