Topical application of lindane cream (Kwell) and antipyrine metabolism

The transcutaneous absorption of a 1% lindane cream (Kwell) was determined after application according to the official label. By 3 days after application the plasma lindane level increased from nondetectable to 10.3 +/- 2.2 ng/ml. Sufficient lindane was absorbed to increase the plasma clearance of antipyrine from 0.027 +/- 0.009 to 0.037 +/- 0.011 1/kg/hr (p less than 0.05). these findings indicate significant transcutaneous absorption of lindane occurs following a single application and are compatible with the neurological toxicity reported following the topical application of lindane cream.