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 resource-poor 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.