Delice

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Delice

Method of action: Anti-Pediculosis

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Delice

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Lindane (Gamma-Hexachlorocyclohexane)
Form Lotion, Shampoo, Cream
Pharmacological class Ectoparasiticide (Scabicide, Pediculicide)
Common use Elimination of external parasitic infestations
Origin Synthetic Compound (Organochlorine)

What Type of Medicine is Delice (Lindane)?

Delice is a medicinal preparation classified as an ectoparasiticide, meaning its primary function is strictly limited to eliminating parasites that infest the outer surface of the human body, such as mites and lice. The preparation contains the sole active pharmaceutical ingredient, Lindane, chemically known as Gamma-Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH). As an ectoparasiticide, Delice is further categorized as a scabicide and pediculicide, highlighting its specialized function against the organisms responsible for infestations like scabies and pediculosis. Lindane is a synthetic compound that falls within the chemical group of organochlorine insecticides. This specific chemical classification is characterized by a potent, rapid effect on arthropod organisms.

Composition and General Therapeutic Purpose

The product is formulated exclusively for topical application and is available as a single-ingredient product in several pharmaceutical preparations, including a Lotion, a Shampoo, and a Cream, ensuring direct contact with the site of infestation. The medicinal action relies on the neurotoxicity of the Lindane component toward the nervous systems of mites and lice. This synthetic compound exerts its effect by interfering with the parasite's central nervous system, specifically the GABA-gated chloride channels, leading to paralysis and the eventual death of the arthropod organisms. The fundamental purpose of this targeted approach is the effective eradication of the parasitic load, which ultimately helps to resolve the underlying parasitic skin condition by eliminating the cause.

Regulatory References

  1. Lindane Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Delice?

The regulatory safety profile of Lindane (Delice) is formally constrained due to the potential for systemic toxicity, resulting in its classification as a second-line treatment in official regulatory documentation. The product carries a Boxed Warning regarding the risk of neurotoxicity, including documented reports of seizures and death [accessdata.fda.gov].

Adverse Reactions and Systemic Effects

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency and system-organ class. The Most Common effects include local reactions such as itching skin (pruritus), burning skin, dry skin, and skin rash. Serious effects, in addition to neurotoxicity, may involve other major organ systems, including Blood and Lymphatic Disorders (e.g., Aplastic Anemia), Hepatobiliary Disorders (Hepatitis), and Cardiac Disorders (e.g., Cardiac arrhythmia) [doctorabad.com].

Safety Considerations for Specific Populations

Use is contraindicated in specific patient groups, including premature neonates and individuals with an uncontrolled seizure disorder. A greater risk of serious neurotoxicity is documented for infants, children, the elderly, those who weigh less than 50 kg (approx. 110 lbs), and individuals with skin conditions (e.g., crusted scabies) that may increase systemic absorption. Furthermore, the label notes that Lindane is distributed into breast milk, and nursing should be discontinued for at least 24 hours following application [accessdata.fda.gov].

Usage Constraints and Risk Patterns

Risk patterns are tied to duration, with seizures and death reported with repeat or prolonged application, although rare cases following a single application are also documented. The official label notes that using oils prior to application may enhance systemic absorption and that persistent itching after treatment is generally not an indication for retreatment [accessdata.fda.gov].

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory labeling for Delice (which is an externally used product) does not contain a standard, dedicated section detailing the systemic signs, symptoms, or classification of an oral overdose. Given that the product is intended for external use only, the documented focus is primarily on local exposure risk.

Emergency Response Instructions

If the product solution accidentally gets into the eyes, the official guidance is to take immediate action:

  • Rinse the affected eye(s) with plenty of clean water for 10 to 15 minutes.

When Immediate Medical Help is Required

If eye irritation persists after completing the recommended rinsing procedure, you should seek medical attention and consult your doctor or pharmacist.

The absence of a typical overdose section, which would detail physiological systems affected or dose-related toxicity levels, reflects the product's non-systemic use. Therefore, any ingestion or significant, prolonged exposure beyond the specified use, particularly if accompanied by systemic symptoms, should be addressed as an urgent medical concern. Always contact a Poison Control Center or Emergency Services immediately if a large amount of the product is ingested, or if the user collapses, has trouble breathing, or has a seizure.

Therapeutic Uses of Delice

What Delice treats: main uses and benefits

Delice is a topical solution used for the physical elimination of head lice and nits (eggs). Unlike conventional treatments that rely on chemical insecticides, Delice utilizes a physical mechanism of action to address infestations.

Main Uses

The primary application of Delice is the treatment of head lice infestations. It is designed to be applied to the hair and scalp to target both the active lice and their eggs.

  • Elimination of Live Lice: The solution works by coating the lice and penetrating their breathing system, leading to suffocation.
  • Targeting Nits: The formulation is also intended to affect the eggs, preventing them from hatching and continuing the infestation cycle.

Benefits and Mechanism

The benefits of Delice stem from its physical approach to lice management, which differs from pharmacological interventions.

  • Physical Action: Because Delice works through a mechanical process—essentially suffocating the insects—it does not require the use of neurotoxic pesticides.
  • Resistance Management: A significant advantage of physical treatments is that lice are unlikely to develop biological resistance. In many regions, head lice have developed resistance to common chemical insecticides, making physical methods an effective alternative.
  • Scalp Compatibility: The ingredients are typically chosen for their ability to remain on the hair and scalp during the treatment period without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
  • Odor and Texture: The solution is generally formulated to be colorless and lacks the pungent chemical odors often associated with traditional pesticide-based lice treatments.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label):

  • Patients undergoing physical treatment of scalp hair in case of infestation with head lice.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated (must not be used):

  • Individuals with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to any of the product's ingredients.

Restrictions and Limitations

Age-Related Rules:

  • Use is not recommended in children under the age of two years. Official regulatory information indicates that there are not enough studies to establish safe use in this younger age group.

Physiological States:

  • Use is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Official labeling suggests exclusion for these groups due to a lack of sufficient data to demonstrate safety during these periods.

Specific Conditions and General Use:

  • If allergic skin reactions occur, treatment should be stopped immediately.
  • The product is strictly for external use only.
  • Users must avoid contact with eyes or mucous membranes (such as the nose and throat).

Summary of Eligibility Profile

The regulatory profile for Delice defines who can and cannot use the medicine based on a core contraindication of allergy to its components. Conditional exclusions are in place for children under two years old and for pregnant or lactating women, where use is not recommended due to limited established safety data for these specific populations. This structure is intended to ensure appropriate use only in the documented eligible patient group while prohibiting its application in individuals with known risks or where safety has not been fully established.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section summarizes the officially documented interactions for this product, based strictly on authoritative governmental regulatory documents. Interaction information defines how the product may be affected by, or affect, other medicines, specific foods, or common substances.


Documented Product-Product Interactions

Official regulatory documentation identifies a specific restriction regarding the concurrent use of this product with other topical substances.

Interacting Product Category Nature of Interaction Constraint
Certain Hair Care Products Potential for an undesirable reaction
Certain Hair Tinting Products Potential for an undesirable reaction

Official Interaction Statement Summary

Regulatory labeling specifies that this product could react with certain hair care and hair tinting products. This statement establishes a constraint on co-administration, indicating that caution or restricted use is necessary when using this product simultaneously or closely in time with these specific product categories. The potential interaction is focused on product-product compatibility within a topical application context.

Absence of Systemic Drug-Drug Interactions

Regulatory documents do not describe pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions, such as those involving enzyme systems (e.g., CYP), which commonly lead to changes in the concentration of other medicines in the body. The interaction profile is limited to the potential reaction with the specified topical hair products. No formal classifications of interaction severity (e.g., Contraindicated or Major) are provided in the official statement, as the constraint is based on a localized potential reaction.

Mechanism of Action

Molecular Target: Blockade of Inhibitory Channels

The mechanism of action for Lindane is defined by its selective targeting of the GABA-gated chloride channel (a component of the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor complex) found in the nervous system of mites and lice. Lindane functions as a non-competitive antagonist, binding within the channel pore and physically blocking the influx of chloride ions ( Cl^-). This prevents the inhibitory signals required for hyperpolarization of the parasite's neurons.

Mechanistic Cascade and Neurotoxicity

The physiological consequence of this ion channel blockade is the disruption of the parasite's inhibitory neurotransmission pathway. The loss of these inhibitory signals results in sustained neuronal hyperexcitation and electrical instability. This neurotoxicity escalates into systemic convulsions and neuromuscular paralysis. This complete systemic paralysis and eventual metabolic failure results in the death of the parasitic organism.

Functional Limitation: Ovicidal Efficacy

The drug's effect is constrained by the physical structure of the parasite's life cycle. Due to its mechanism relying on direct neurological access, Lindane exhibits low ovicidal activity. The protective shell of parasite eggs (nits) limits the drug's penetration, preventing a toxic concentration from reaching the embryo's developing nervous system and thus constraining the effect to only the post-hatch, motile organisms.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Delice: Administration Guidelines

This information describes the procedures for using Delice (Dimethicone Solution).


Administration Scope

Field Instruction
Route of Administration External use only; topical application to scalp hair.
Dosing Schedule Apply enough solution to thoroughly saturate dry hair and scalp, ensuring all hair is covered from root to tip.
Preparation Apply the product directly to dry hair; no dilution or reconstitution is specified.
Age-Group Rules Not for use in children under the age of two years.
Special Conditions Must remain on the hair for at least 30 minutes. Must not be used near naked flames or heat sources, including hair dryers.

Procedural Structure

The treatment protocol involves two applications to ensure efficacy. This process is defined by the following steps:

  1. Preparation and Application: Ensure the enclosed dispensing pump is screwed onto the bottle. Inspect all family members and treat all affected individuals on the same day. Apply the solution to dry hair and scalp, massaging thoroughly until the entire head is saturated, focusing behind the ears and on the back of the neck.
  2. Contact Time: Leave the solution in place for a minimum of 30 minutes.
  3. Second Treatment: A second, identical treatment must be carried out 7 days after the first application to kill any newly hatched lice that may have survived as nits.

The protocol is based on two required applications—an initial use and a repeat 7 days later—with a 30-minute contact time for each application. The administration method is topical, with safety constraints to prevent contact with eyes or mucous membranes and to avoid sources of ignition due to the product's flammability.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

How the Drug is Studied

Research suggests the drug’s action involves blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Studies have been conducted to evaluate its use for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Note that most research focuses on its use in adults.

Primary Clinical Findings

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Research

Clinical trials have examined whether the drug can affect symptoms of depression. Trials typically compare the drug against a placebo or an active comparator drug.

  • Symptom Change: Research evaluated in a review of several trials whether the drug was associated with a statistically noticeable difference in standard depression rating scales when compared to a placebo.
  • Quality of Life: Clinical trials have evaluated whether taking this medication may be associated with an effect on quality of life. Research findings regarding quality of life have varied across studies.
  • Relapse Rate: Research has explored whether the drug is associated with a lower rate of relapse in patients who initially responded to treatment.

Key evidence comes from a large meta-analysis. This analysis evaluated pooled data from 20 studies (over 5,000 participants) to see if the drug was associated with differences in depression scale scores after 8 to 12 weeks of treatment.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Research

  • Sustained Effects: Research has explored whether studies show a sustained maintenance of effect over a six-month period when compared to a placebo.
  • Combination Therapy: The combination with other treatments was evaluated to see if it affects patient outcomes.

Investigational Use

Chronic Pain

Studies have explored its potential use for chronic pain. This includes studies evaluating its effect in conditions such as diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia.

  • Pain Reduction: One analysis reported that it was associated with an average pain score change that was 30% greater than an active comparator drug. However, the overall evidence remains limited across all chronic pain types.

Other Conditions

Studies have investigated its use as an adjunct to psychological counseling for some anxiety disorders. Initial findings suggested the combination may be associated with differences in patient scores on anxiety rating scales compared to counseling alone. Further research is required to clarify these findings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Delice (FAQ)


Q: How quickly should someone notice effects after starting Delice?

Official regulatory documents do not specify the exact time it takes to see the effects on the parasites. However, the official administration protocol requires the solution to remain on the hair for a minimum of 30 minutes to ensure it is effective against the infestation. The full treatment protocol involves a second, mandatory application 7 days later to address newly hatched parasites.


Q: Does Delice cause drowsiness or affect daily activities?

Official product information indicates that serious, though rare, side effects that have been reported include dizziness and drowsiness. The regulatory warning includes caution regarding activities requiring full alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Users should be aware of how the medicine affects them before engaging in such activities.


Q: Is Delice considered a 'new' medicine or has it been around for a while?

The active ingredient in Delice, known as Lindane, is an older chemical compound. It was first approved for pharmaceutical use in the United States in 1951 and has been historically regulated as both a pesticide and a medication for ectoparasites.


Q: Is Delice available in generic form?

Yes, the product is available in formulations containing the active pharmaceutical ingredient, Lindane, which is the generic name for the substance. Delice is one of several brand names that contain Lindane.


Q: How does Delice affect people with kidney issues?

Official safety data has noted that the active ingredient can affect the kidneys in cases of systemic exposure or prolonged use, and high exposure has been associated with kidney damage. Patients with pre-existing kidney conditions are advised to discuss the product's use with a healthcare professional.


Q: What is the purpose of the different strengths (dosage forms) of Delice?

Delice is officially available in several topical forms, including a Lotion, Shampoo, and Cream. Official regulatory information suggests these different forms are intended for use in treating specific types of parasitic infestations, such as using the shampoo for head lice or the lotion/cream for scabies.


Q: Is Delice known to be habit-forming?

According to official documentation, Delice is categorized as an ectoparasiticide that is applied topically for a short-term treatment course. Due to its classification and manner of use, the product is not documented or classified as having potential for abuse or being habit-forming.


Q: What are the restrictions on using Delice in patients with liver problems?

Official safety documents list specific conditions that increase the risk of serious side effects like seizures. Among these are conditions that severely impair liver function, such as severe hepatic cirrhosis. Use in these patient groups is subject to specific regulatory precautions.


Q: How long does Delice stay in the system after the last use?

Pharmacokinetic data from authoritative sources indicates that the active ingredient, Lindane, has an elimination half-life of approximately 18 hours.


Q: Can Delice be used by people with a history of heart conditions?

Regulatory safety information lists Cardiac Disorders, specifically mentioning cardiac arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat), as a rare but serious potential adverse reaction. The regulatory profile suggests that individuals with a history of heart conditions may need to discuss the risks with a healthcare professional.


Q: Are there any specific warnings for Delice use in people who drive?

Official safety warnings note that the product has the potential to cause dizziness and drowsiness. The regulatory warning includes caution regarding activities requiring full alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.


Q: What is the role of Delice compared to non-drug treatments?

Delice is classified by regulatory agencies as a second-line treatment. This means that it is generally recommended only for individuals who have failed to be treated successfully by, or cannot tolerate, other less toxic, first-line medications or treatments.


Q: What does the official patient information say about combining Delice with alcohol?

The official patient information and safety documents advise caution regarding conditions that may increase the risk of seizures. This includes instances of excessive alcohol use or abrupt withdrawal from alcohol. These conditions are stated in regulatory documents as factors for a healthcare professional to consider.

How should Delice be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Delice

Storage Requirements

Classification Requirement
Temperature Store below 30 C (Room Temperature/Controlled Room Temperature).
Child Safety Keep Delice out of the reach of children.
Flammability Keep away from sources of ignition, heat, and naked flames, including hair dryers, due to the presence of flammable ingredients. Do not smoke during use.

Handling and Disposal

Delice is for external use only. The bottle should be held upright during use for proper pump function. Clean the comb thoroughly after use.

For disposal of unused or expired product, the best practice is to utilize a community drug take-back program. If this option is not available, do not flush the product down a toilet or drain. Most medicines not on the FDA's flush list can be mixed with an unappealing substance, such as used coffee grounds or cat litter, placed in a sealed container, and then thrown in the household trash. Scratch out all identifying personal information from the packaging before disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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