Walgreens Lice Killing Shampoo

Walgreens Lice Killing Shampoo is an over-the-counter (OTC) topical pediculicide used for the treatment of head, pubic (crab), and body lice infestations. It is a combination product containing pyrethrum extract (standardized to pyrethrins) and piperonyl butoxide. Pyrethrins are natural insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers that act as neurotoxins by delaying the closure of voltage-gated sodium channels in the lice's nervous system, leading to prolonged depolarization, paralysis, and death. Piperonyl butoxide serves as a synergist by inhibiting cytochrome P450 enzymes in the lice, which prevents the metabolic breakdown of pyrethrins and significantly enhances their insecticidal activity. The product is typically applied to dry hair for 10 minutes, followed by rinsing and mechanical removal of nits using a fine-tooth comb.

Brand names

Walgreens Lice Killing Shampoo

Other names

Piperonyl Butoxide 4% + Pyrethrum Extract 0.33% ShampooWalgreens Lice Killing Shampoo-Oystershell NV