What is the best and fastest medication for treating scabies?

Scabies is a contagious dermatological condition caused by the burrowing of Sarcoptes scabiei mites into the epidermis of the human skin. There is generally no single treatment that offers the "best and fastest results." Physicians may prescribe medications such as sulfur ointment, lindane cream, ivermectin tablets, crotamiton cream, or loratadine tablets for treatment. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical consultation in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Sulfur Ointment: A topical insecticide that directly kills scabies mites and their eggs. It is the foundational medication for treating scabies. After bathing, apply from the neck down to the soles of the feet, leave it on for 10–12 hours, and then wash it off. When used according to the prescribed course, it shows rapid effectiveness for ordinary cases of scabies.

2. Lindane Cream: A potent topical insecticide that works by paralyzing the nervous system of the mites. It is suitable for moderate cases of scabies. After application, leave it on for 8–14 hours before washing off. Strict adherence to medical instructions regarding dosage is essential to avoid excessive skin irritation.

3. Ivermectin Tablets: An oral antiparasitic medication suitable for severe or widespread scabies. Used in combination with topical treatments, it enhances efficacy by inhibiting nerve conduction in the mites, thereby killing adult mites. Dosage is calculated based on body weight.

4. Crotamiton Cream: A topical agent with both insecticidal and antipruritic effects. It rapidly relieves itching while killing scabies mites. Apply once daily for five consecutive days. It is suitable for individuals who are intolerant to sulfur ointment.

5. Loratadine Tablets: An oral antihistamine that, although not directly insecticidal, rapidly alleviates intense itching, reduces scratching-induced infections, and aids in accelerating the recovery process. It is typically taken once daily.

Medications should be used strictly according to medical instructions, without self-adjusting the dosage. Topical medications must be applied evenly over the entire body, and oral medications must be taken according to the prescribed dosage. Additionally, thorough disinfection of clothing and bedding is necessary to prevent reinfestation.