Abametapir

• Approved Use:
• Treatment of head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) infestations in patients aged 6 months and older.
• Off-label/Clinically Accepted Uses:
• Occasionally used for body lice infestations.
• Considered for treatment of resistant lice due to its unique mechanism.

• Adults and Children ≥6 months:
• Apply enough topical lotion to cover dry hair and scalp completely.
• Leave on for 10 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Single application is generally sufficient; repeat only if reinfestation occurs.
• Special Populations:
• Safety and efficacy not established in children under 6 months.
• No dosage adjustment needed for elderly or those with renal/hepatic impairment, as systemic absorption is minimal.

Abametapir acts as a metalloproteinase inhibitor that disrupts essential enzymatic processes in lice and their eggs. By inhibiting metalloproteinases, it prevents the development and hatching of lice eggs (ovicidal effect) and kills live lice (pediculicidal effect). This unique mechanism reduces the likelihood of resistance compared to neurotoxic pediculicides.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption after topical application.
• Distribution: Limited systemic distribution due to negligible absorption.
• Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized systemically.
• Excretion: Primarily eliminated by topical clearance; systemic excretion is insignificant.
• Half-life: Not clinically relevant because of minimal systemic exposure.

• Pregnancy: No adequate human studies; animal studies show no evidence of harm at topical doses. Use only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Lactation: Unknown if excreted in breast milk. Minimal systemic absorption suggests low risk, but caution is advised.
• Data: Limited clinical data; use with caution.

• Primary: Pediculicide
• Subclass: Metalloproteinase inhibitor-based pediculicide

• Hypersensitivity to abametapir or any formulation excipients.
• Application to open wounds or irritated scalp.
• Age less than 6 months.

• Avoid contact with eyes; rinse immediately if exposure occurs.
• Use cautiously in patients with preexisting scalp conditions.
• Discontinue use if severe irritation or hypersensitivity develops.
• Not effective against non-head lice infestations (e.g., scabies).
• Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

• Common: Mild scalp irritation, itching, redness, dryness.
• Rare/Serious: Allergic reactions (rash, swelling), contact dermatitis.
• Usually mild and transient, resolving without intervention.

• No known systemic drug interactions due to minimal absorption.
• No known interactions with food or alcohol.
• Not metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes.

• Approved recently by FDA for single-application lice treatment.
• Recommended for pyrethroid-resistant lice by clinical guidelines.
• Emphasizes ovicidal activity reducing need for repeat treatments.

• Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F).
• Protect from freezing and excessive heat.
• Keep container tightly closed and out of direct sunlight.
• No reconstitution required.
• Shake well before use if formulation is a suspension.