Scabies
NICE CKS: Scabies BASHH: Scabies guideline NHS Inform: Scabies BAD Patient Information: Scabies
Treatment of scabies
Treatment choice should be based on individual clinical situation.
Permethrin
Permethrin 5% cream
May be preferred in pre-existing eczema. Ivermectin tablets are less cost-effective than permethrin cream.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin 3mg tablets
Malathion
Malathion 0.5% aqueous liquid
Prescribing Notes:
- Treat post scabies itch with crotamiton 10% cream. See ‘Topical treatment of pruritus’ pathway for details.
History Notes
27/05/2026
Regional formulary chapter launched.
Treatment of scabies
Treatment choice should be based on individual clinical situation.
Permethrin
Permethrin 5% cream
May be preferred in pre-existing eczema. Ivermectin tablets are less cost-effective than permethrin cream.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin 3mg tablets
Malathion
Malathion 0.5% aqueous liquid
Prescribing Notes:
- Seek specialist advice from dermatology if diagnostic uncertainty or repeated treatment failure or for treatment of children < 15kg.
History Notes
27/05/2026
Regional formulary chapter launched.