Generic
Abametapir
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Abametapir is a topical pediculicide used for the treatment of head lice infestation in patients 6 months of age and older. It is a metalloproteinase inhibitor that interferes with the development and survival of lice and their eggs.
Description
Abametapir is a topical lotion used for the treatment of head lice (Pediculus humanus) infestation . It is a metalloproteinase inhibitor that blocks enzymes essential for egg development and louse survival . It is effective with a single application and should be used as part of an overall lice management program. It contains benzyl alcohol, which poses a risk to infants under 6 months of age .
Indications
Topical treatment of head lice (pediculosis capitis) infestation in patients 6 months of age and older .
Therapeutic class
Pediculicide
Pharmacological class
Metalloproteinase Inhibitor
Pharmacology
Abametapir is a metalloproteinase inhibitor . Metalloproteinases have a role in physiological processes critical to egg development and survival of lice. By inhibiting this enzyme, abametapir disrupts the life cycle of lice and their eggs .
Mechanism of action
Abametapir inhibits metalloproteinase enzymes essential for the development of lice eggs and the survival of lice, thereby disrupting the louse life cycle and eliminating the infestation .
Dosage
Adults and children ≥6 months:
- Apply sufficient amount (up to one full bottle) to dry hair and scalp to thoroughly coat the hair and scalp .
- Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water .
- This is a single-application treatment; do not reapply .
Administration
- For topical use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or genital area .
- Shake well before use .
- Ensure direct adult supervision during application in children .
- Discard any unused product; do not flush down sink or toilet .
Missed dose
As this treatment is usually a single application, a missed dose is unlikely. Consult your healthcare provider if needed.
Side effects
Common side effects (≥1%):
- Erythema (redness of skin or scalp) – 4%
- Skin rash – 3.2%
- Skin burning sensation – 2.6%
- Contact dermatitis – 1.7%
- Vomiting – 1.7%
- Eye irritation – 1.2%
- Hair color changes – 1%
- Scalp pruritus – 1.4%
Precautions & warnings
- Risk of Neonatal Benzyl Alcohol Toxicity: This product contains benzyl alcohol, which has been associated with serious and fatal reactions in neonates and low birth-weight infants (“gasping syndrome”) . Use is not recommended in infants under 6 months of age .
- Risk from Accidental Ingestion: Administer only under direct adult supervision in children .
- Avoid contact with eyes; rinse with water if accidental contact occurs .
- If symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, consult a doctor .
Contraindications
No contraindications are listed in the manufacturer's labeling . However, avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the product .
Drug interactions
CYP450 Substrates: Avoid taking drugs that are substrates of CYP3A4, CYP2B6, or CYP1A2 for 2 weeks after abametapir application, as the abametapir metabolite (abametapir carboxyl) may inhibit these enzymes and increase drug levels .
If avoidance is not possible, abametapir should not be used .
Food interactions
For topical use, no clinically significant food interactions are known.
Use in pregnancy
The safety of abametapir during pregnancy has not been established . Use only if recommended by a physician .
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
There are insufficient data regarding the use of abametapir during breastfeeding . Consult your physician before use .
Pediatric use
≥6 months: Safety and efficacy have been established .
<6 months: Use is not recommended due to the risk of benzyl alcohol toxicity and potential increased systemic absorption .
Geriatric use
Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects . No specific dose adjustments are known.
Renal / hepatic impairment
There are no adequate data regarding dose adjustment in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
Overdose effects
If accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical advice and contact your local Poison Control Center .
Storage conditions
Before and after opening: Store at 2°-8°C in a frost-free place .
Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children .
Chemical structure
5,5'-Dimethyl-2,2'-bipyridinyl