Lidane: Lice Treatment Banned by EPA but Allowed by FDA | DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced earlier this month that all uses of lidane as an agricultural insecticide would be banned in the future.  Although existing supplies can be used up,  manufactures have agreed to stop any new sales in the United States.  Lidane is a toxic chemical known to cause seizures, damage the nervous system, and weaken the immune system.  It  was previously banned in 52 other countries.

However, the Food and Drug Admimistration (FDA) continues to allow lidane to be used in shampoos and lotions for the treatment of lice and scabies, even though a caution is included in the FDA’s lice treatment article as well as alternative treatment suggestions.  The state of California has already banned lidane for lice and scabies treatment and other states are considering following suit.  Consumer safety groups, including the Pesticide Action Network have asked that the FDA withdraw lidane for pharmaceutical uses, because of its link to brain tumors and hormone disruption.

If your doctor recommends using a lidane-based shampoo or lotion for your child’s lice or scabies, ask about the risk of long-term potential side effects as well as alternative medication.