There is currently a shortage of Lyclear (permethrin) cream and Benzemul (benzyl benzoate) lotion for the treatment of scabies.

Reach Pharmaceuticals has received approval under Section 19A (S19A) of the Therapeutic Goods Act to import supply of permethrin (Encube) 5% cream from the US until 31 October 2024.

The alternative product is identical in active ingredient, strength and storage conditions to the Australian registered products but differs in tube size and excipients.

For information on how to access the alternate product, please refer to the Dear Health Care Professional letter prepared by Reach Pharmaceuticals.

For general advice and management on scabies, there is information available on Victoria’s Better Health Channel at:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/scabies

A clinical reference for scabies management, with details of diagnosis and treatment (including current dosing) recommendations, is available at:
https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2017/may/scabies-a-clinical-update

This shortage is expected to resolve in January 2025.