Ascabiol

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > A



How does it work?

Ascabiol emulsion contains the active ingredient benzyl benzoate, which is one of the older medicines used to treat scabies. (NB. Benzyl benzoate application is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.) Scabies is a skin infection caused by the mite sarcoptes scabiei. It is characterised by severe itching (particularly at night), red spots, and may lead to a secondary infection. Benzyl benzoate is lethal to this mite and so is useful in the treatment of scabies. It is also used to treat lice infestation of the head and body. Benzyl benzoate is not the treatment of choice for scabies due to its irritant properties.

What is it used for?

- Head lice and pubic lice
- Scabies

Warning!

- Avoid contact with eyes and face
- This product may damage plastic items or acrylic furniture. Care must be taken to avoid splashing onto these surfaces.
- In the event of severe skin irritation, the preparation should be washed off using soap and warm water.

Use with caution in

- Children

Not to be used in

- No known conditions

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects