abametapir

Abametapir is a topical small molecule pediculicide used for the treatment of head lice infestation in patients six months of age and older. It acts as a metalloproteinase inhibitor targeting louse metalloproteinases that are essential for egg development and survival. By inhibiting these enzymes through chelation of metal cations, abametapir disrupts the life cycle of lice at all stages—including eggs—making it effective with a single application. This mechanism distinguishes it from other treatments that often require multiple doses due to limited ovicidal activity. Abametapir is metabolized primarily by CYP1A2 to active metabolites and can inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4, CYP2B6, CYP1A2) in vitro[1][3][4][7].

Brand names

Xeglyze

Other names

abametapir