Comparison of permethrin 2.5 % cream vs. Tenutex emulsion for the treatment of scabies

Scabies is a common parasitic infestation that is an important public-health problem in many resourcepoor regions. It is commonly treated with the insecticides but the treatment of choice is still controversial. This study aimed at comparing the efficacy of permethrin 2.5% cream vs. Tenutex emulsion for the treatment of scabies. In total, 440 patients with scabies were enrolled, and randomized into two groups The first group received permethrin 2.5% cream twice with one week interval and the second group received Tenutex emulsion and were told to apply this once whole-body application. Treatment was evaluated at intervals of 2 and 4 weeks, and if there was treatment failure at the 2-week follow-up, treatment was repeated.Two application of permethrin 2.5% cream provided a cure rate of 63.6% at the 2-week follow-up, which increased to 86.3% at the 4-week follow-up after repeating the treatment. Treatment with single applications of Tenutex emulsion was effective in 45.4% of patients at the 2-week follow-up, which increased to 59.1% at the 4-week follow-up after this treatment was repeated.Two application of permethrin 2.5% cream was as effective as single applications of Tenutex emulsion at the 2-week follow-up. After repeating the treatment, permethrin 2.5% cream was superior to Tenutex emulsion at the 4-week follow up.