What is Natroba Topical Suspension?
Natroba is a prescription topical suspension containing the active ingredient spinosad, a naturally derived insecticide. It is FDA-approved for treating head lice infestations in adults and children 6 months of age and older. Spinosad works by causing the central nervous system of lice and mites to become overexcited, leading to paralysis and death. Unlike some older treatments, Natroba has shown a high rate of effectiveness even against lice that may have developed resistance to other insecticides. It is important to note that Natroba contains benzyl alcohol and is not recommended for use in infants younger than 6 months due to the potential for increased systemic absorption.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Using Natroba for Head Lice
Following the manufacturer's instructions is crucial for the most effective treatment. An adult should apply Natroba for children.
- Prepare for treatment. Gather the necessary supplies, including the Natroba bottle, a towel to protect the eyes and shoulders, and a clock or timer.
- Shake the bottle well. Immediately before use, shake the bottle vigorously to ensure the medication is evenly mixed.
- Apply to dry hair. Ensure the hair is completely dry before beginning. Do not wet the hair or use conditioner beforehand. Use a towel to protect your face and eyes from any drips.
- Cover the scalp completely. Dispense enough suspension to cover the entire scalp first, as lice and nits are concentrated closest to the scalp. Work the product outwards to cover all dry hair. The amount needed depends on hair length and thickness.
- Adhere to the recommended duration. Once all hair and scalp are saturated with the suspension, leave it on for the specific time indicated in the product instructions or by your healthcare provider. Do not leave it on longer than instructed.
- Rinse thoroughly. After the recommended time, rinse the hair and scalp completely with warm water. Rinsing over a sink is recommended to limit body exposure.
- Wash hands and dry hair. Wash hands thoroughly after application and rinsing. The hair can then be dried with a clean towel.
- Check for effectiveness. A fine-toothed nit comb may be used to remove dead lice and nits, although it is not required for treatment success.
Important Considerations After Treatment
Effective lice management requires a multi-pronged approach that extends beyond the initial hair treatment. Taking these additional steps will help prevent re-infestation:
- Wash all linens and clothing. Machine-wash and dry all recently worn clothing, hats, bedding, and towels in hot water and high heat to kill any remaining lice or nits.
- Clean personal items. Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (at least 130°F or 55°C) for a specific duration.
- Vacuum household surfaces. Vacuum furniture, carpets, and floors to remove any stray lice.
- Repeat if necessary. Check the scalp for any live, crawling lice 7 days after the first treatment. If live lice are present, a second application of Natroba is needed.
Natroba vs. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
Natroba is a prescription medication, whereas many common head lice treatments like permethrin (e.g., Nix) are available over-the-counter. The primary differences lie in the active ingredients, efficacy, and application process.
| Feature | Natroba (Spinosad) | OTC Treatments (e.g., Permethrin) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Prescription only | Over-the-counter |
| Active Ingredient | Spinosad, derived from soil bacteria | Permethrin or pyrethrin, synthetic pesticides |
| Mechanism of Action | Causes neuronal overexcitation, leading to paralysis and death | Disrupts the insect's nervous system |
| Efficacy | Clinically shown to be superior to permethrin, with high success rates | Decreased effectiveness observed in some areas due to resistant lice (super lice) |
| Nit Combing | Not required for effectiveness | Often recommended or required for optimal results |
| Re-treatment | Required only if live lice are found after 7 days | Often includes mandatory re-treatment after a specific interval |
Warnings and Precautions
To ensure safe and effective use of Natroba, keep the following precautions in mind:
- External use only: Never ingest Natroba. Keep it away from eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with water.
- Not for all ages: Natroba is not recommended for children under 6 months due to the benzyl alcohol content.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before using if pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While systemic absorption is low, it is recommended that breastfeeding women wash Natroba off the breast area with soap and water before feeding to prevent direct infant exposure.
- Seek medical advice: If irritation of the scalp or skin occurs, or if live lice are still seen after a second treatment, consult your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Using Natroba correctly is a straightforward process that offers a highly effective solution for treating head lice. The single-application nature and the lack of a mandatory nit-combing requirement make it a convenient option for many people. By following the precise steps of applying it to dry hair, leaving it on for the recommended duration, and properly rinsing, users can achieve excellent results. Additionally, combining the medication with thorough cleaning of personal items and the environment is crucial for preventing re-infestation and ensuring a completely successful outcome. If a second treatment is necessary, it should be done after 7 days. Adhering to all safety precautions will help ensure a safe and successful treatment experience. For detailed prescribing information, consult the official FDA-approved label.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
