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PerFoam: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

PerFoam - General Information

A pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in the treatment of lice infestations and scabies. It is a yellow to light orange-brown, low melt-ing solid or viscous liquid.

 

Pharmacology of PerFoam

PerFoam, a pyrethroid, is active against a broad range of pests including lice, ticks, fleas, mites, and other arthropods.

 

Additional information about PerFoam

PerFoam Indication

For the treatment of infestation with Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies).

Mechanism Of Action
PerFoam acts on the nerve cell membrane to disrupt the sodium channel current by which the polarization of the membrane is regulated. Delayed repolarization and paralysis of the pests are the consequences of this disturbance.
Generic Name
Permethrin
Drug Category
Enzyme Inhibitors; Insecticides
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Approved; Investigational
Other Brand Names containing Permethrin
PerFoam; Acticin Cream; Elimite; Elimite Cream; Nix; Nix Cream Rinse;
Absorption
Poorly absorbed through the skin.
Toxicity (Overdose)
Oral, rat LD50: 430 - 4000 mg/kg; skin, rabbit LD50: 2000 mg/kg.
Biotransformation
Rapidly metabolized by ester hydrolysis to inactive metabolites which are excreted primarily in the urine.
Dosage Forms of PerFoam
Cream Topical
Chemical IUPAC Name
[3-(phenoxy)phenyl]methyl 3-(2,2-dichloroethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylate
Chemical Formula
C21H20Cl2O3
Organisms Affected
Scabies (Sarcoptes scabei) and other insects