Spinosad (Natroba): Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

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Topical spinosad is a solution that is applied to the skin. It is used to treat certain conditions caused by tiny insects, such as scabies and head lice. The most common side effects are red, irritated, or dry skin. When it is applied to the scalp, it can also cause eye redness.

Uses

What is spinosad used for?

Topical spinosad is commonly used for the following conditions caused by tiny insects.

Spinosad may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does spinosad work (mechanism of action)?

Spinosad kills tiny insects, such as head lice and mites, by disrupting their nerves and muscles.

How is spinosad supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

Natroba

Dosage forms and strengths

0.9% topical suspension

How should I store spinosad?

Topical spinosad should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of spinosad?

The most common side effects of spinosad are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the condition that is being treated. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

Skin irritation, including redness or burning
Dry skin
Eye redness (when applied to the scalp)

There may be other side effects of spinosad that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of spinosad?

While less common, the most serious side effects of spinosad are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical spinosad may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical spinosad and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Breathing problems or wheezing
Racing heart
Fever or general ill feeling
Swollen lymph nodes
Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
Stomach cramps
Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use spinosad?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use spinosad.

Natroba
Spinosad
Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific spinosad products they stock.

Newborns. Children who are less than six months old should not use topical spinosad.

What should I know about spinosad before using it?

Do not use spinosad unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share spinosad with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep spinosad out of the reach of children. If your child requires treatment with topical spinosad, you or another caregiver should apply the medicine and wash it off for them as directed by your healthcare provider.

Shake the bottle well before use. Topical spinosad should only be applied to the skin and hair. Do not get the medicine in your mouth, eyes, eyelashes, eyebrows, ears, nose, lips, or vagina. If the medicine gets into the eyes, gently flush your eyes with water. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.

The instructions for applying topical spinosad may change depending on which condition you are treating. Talk to your pharmacist or other healthcare provider if you are uncertain how to apply topical spinosad.

Once you have used topical spinosad, it is important to take other steps to stop the mites or lice. For example, all exposed bedding, clothing, hats, and towels should be washed in hot water or dry cleaned. Any exposed personal care items, such as brushes, combs, or hair clips, should be washed in hot water.

If you are using topical spinosad to treat head lice, you should check for lice about one week after using this medicine. If you find live lice, speak with your healthcare provider about whether you or your child may need a second treatment.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using spinosad?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if spinosad is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Skin Problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any skin conditions or skin allergies.

Pregnancy. Topical spinosad is not absorbed by the body and is not expected to reach the baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical spinosad while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Topical spinosad does not pass into breast milk. But, it is important to completely wash topical spinosad off of your skin with soap and water before breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you how to safely breastfeed while using topical spinosad.

Interactions

Does spinosad interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between topical spinosad and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical spinosad.

Does spinosad interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between topical spinosad and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker