Head lice
Head lice are one of the most common childhood conditions — millions of cases occur every year in the United States, mostly in school-age children. Getting lice has nothing to do with hygiene: lice spread through direct head-to-head contact and are equally happy on clean hair. The main symptom is scalp itching, though it can take weeks to appear after the first contact.
Treating it correctly the first time
Effective treatments are applied directly to the scalp and hair, and the details matter: in some areas lice have developed resistance to older over-the-counter products, so choosing the right treatment — and applying it exactly as directed — makes the difference. A second application about 9 to 10 days after the first is usually needed to eliminate lice that hatch after the initial treatment.
The household checklist
Check every household member and treat only those with live lice. Wash bedding, hats, and recently worn clothing in hot water; items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. There is no need to fumigate the home — lice survive only briefly away from a human scalp.
Back to routine
Under most school policies, children can return to class after the first treatment. Daily combing with a fine-toothed nit comb for the following week or two helps confirm the treatment worked.
Book a consultation
Found lice — or something that might be? Book a consultation — the pharmacy team will help you choose the right treatment and apply it correctly, in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
Frequently asked questions
Almost always through direct head-to-head contact — hugs, selfies, sleepovers. Spread through hats, brushes, or pillows is possible but much less common, and lice cannot jump or fly. Pets do not carry or transmit head lice.
No — this is the most persistent myth about lice. They attach to clean and dirty hair alike; all they need is proximity to another head. Anyone, in any family, can get them.
Most treatments kill live lice but not all the eggs (nits). A second application about 9 to 10 days later eliminates the lice that hatched after the first round, breaking the life cycle completely. Skipping it is the most common reason lice "come back."
Check everyone, but treat only those with live lice. People who share a bed with someone infested are sometimes treated preventively — a pharmacist can guide you case by case.
Under most school policies, after the first proper treatment — usually the next day. Current pediatric guidelines discourage keeping children out of school for lice, since they spread mainly through direct contact, not classrooms.
General frequently asked questions
Yes. Every prescription medication on this site requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Send us your prescription (e-Rx, fax, or a call to your prescriber), or transfer it from your current pharmacy.
Yes. Simply provide the name and phone number of your current pharmacy, and the transfer is handled for you — usually within 2 business days.
Prescriptions issued abroad cannot be dispensed directly. However, if you are already on treatment, a pharmacist can review your case and guide you through obtaining a valid U.S. prescription so your therapy continues without interruption.
No. Only your doctor or prescriber can change your treatment. Pharmacists are available to answer questions about your medication and coordinate with your prescriber when needed.
At either of our pharmacies — Boca Raton or Pompano Beach. You pay at the pharmacy when you pick up.
Yes. Chronic oral medications are eligible for a discounted 90-day supply, available on each product page.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or medication. Prescription medications are dispensed only with a valid prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Torre, PharmD, RPh — Pharmacist-in-Charge, Florida License PS40009