General

**Off Market Drug**
This medication is no longer available in the United States. Information provided here is for reference purposes only.

Pronunciation:
a-ba-meta-pir

Trade Name(s)

• Xeglyze

Ther. Class.

pediculocides

Pharm. Class.

metalloproteinase inhibitors

Indications

Head lice.

Action

Inhibits metalloproteinase which prevents lice eggs from hatching.

Therapeutic Effect(s):

Eradication of head lice.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Some systemic absorption occurs following topical administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Protein Binding: Abametapir– 92%;  Abametapir carboxyl– 97%.

Metabolism and Excretion: Primarily metabolized by the liver by the CYP1A2 isoenzyme to an active metabolite, abametapir carboxyl. Excretion pathyway unknown.

Half-life: Abametapir carboxyl– 31–111 hr.

TIME/ACTION PROFILE (eradication of head lice)

Contraindication/Precautions

Contraindicated in:

• Pedi:  Children <6 mo (↑ risk of benzyl alcohol absorption; benzyl alcohol may be associated with "gasping syndrome" in neonates and low birth weight infants.

Use Cautiously in:

• OB:   Safety not established;
• Lactation:  Safety not established.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Derm: burning sensation, contact dermatitis, erythema, hair color changes, pruritus, rash

EENT: eye irritation

GI: vomiting

* CAPITALS indicate life-threatening.
Underline indicate most frequent.

Interactions

Drug-Drug

May ↑ levels and risk of toxicity of  CYP1A2 substrates,  CYP2B6 substrates, and  CYP3A4 substrates ; avoid use of these medications within 2 wk of abemetapir administration.

Route/Dosage

Topical (Adults and Children ≥6 mo): Apply amount necessary to coat hair and scalp (up to 1 bottle), message thoroughly, leave in place for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Availability

Topical lotion (contains benzyl alcohol): 0.74%

Potential Diagnoses

• Activity intolerance