Scabies is highly treatable. The most common and effective topical treatment is Permethrin 5% cream. You apply it from the neck down, leave it on for 8 to 14 hours, and wash it off, usually repeating the process a week later. For oral treatment, your doctor may prescribe Ivermectin, which is typically taken as a single dose and repeated in one to two weeks. To ensure complete recovery and prevent reinfection, it is very important that close contacts are treated at the same time, and all clothing and bedding are washed in hot water. Please consult a healthcare provider for a prescription.

It is frustrating when scabies persists. Since first-line treatments haven't worked, alternative options include topical benzyl benzoate, malathion, or sulfur ointment. Sometimes, a combination of oral ivermectin and a different topical agent is prescribed. Often, persistent symptoms are due to re-infestation rather than drug resistance. It is crucial that all household members and close contacts are treated simultaneously, even if asymptomatic. Additionally, wash all clothing and bedding used recently in hot water. Note that itching can normally last for several weeks even after the mites are successfully cleared. Please consult your doctor to safely plan your next treatment step.