(mal a THYE on)
Head lice infection: Topical treatment of Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice and their ova) of the scalp hair
Hypersensitivity to malathion or any component of the formulation; use in neonates and/or infants
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis): Topical: Apply sufficient amount to cover and thoroughly moisten dry hair and scalp; allow hair to dry naturally and shampoo after 8 to 12 hours. If required, repeat with second application in 7 to 9 days. Further treatment is generally not necessary.
Pubic lice (Pediculosis pubis) (following treatment failure of pediculcides) (off-label use): Adults: Topical: Apply to affected area. Wash off after 8 to12 hours (CDC [Workowski 2015]).
Refer to adult dosing.
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis): Children ≥6 years and Adolescents: Topical: Refer to adult dosing. Note: Use is contraindicated in neonates and infants.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer 's labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer 's labeling.
Topical lotion. For external use only; avoid contact with eyes. Apply to dry hair and scalp and rub gently until thoroughly moistened; pay special attention to the back of the head and neck. Allow hair to dry naturally; do not use heat; leave hair uncovered. After 8-12 hours, the hair should be washed with a nonmedicated shampoo; rinse and use a fine-toothed (nit) comb to remove dead lice and eggs. Evaluate other family members to determine if infested and require treatment. Wash hands immediately after use.
Malathion should be a portion of a whole household lice removal program, which should include washing or dry cleaning all clothing, hats, bedding, and towels recently worn or used by the patient and washing combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot soapy water.
Store at room temperature 20 ‚ °C to 25 ‚ °C (68 ‚ °F to 77 ‚ °F). Do not expose to heat and open flames.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Lotion, External:
Ovide: 0.5% (59 mL) [contains isopropyl alcohol]
Generic: 0.5% (59 mL)
There are no known significant interactions.
Frequency not defined.
Dermatologic: Skin irritation (including scalp irritation), stinging of the skin
Ophthalmic: Conjunctivitis (following contact with eyes)
Miscellaneous: Burn (chemical; including second-degree burns)
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- Dermatologic effects: Discontinue use temporarily if skin irritation occurs. Chemical burns, including second-degree burns, and stinging sensations may occur with use.
Other warnings/precautions:
- Appropriate use: For topical use on scalp hair only; leave hair uncovered after application (allow hair to dry naturally). Avoid contact with eyes; flush immediately with water if eye contact occurs. Wash hands immediately after application.
- Flammable: Lotion is flammable; do not expose lotion or hair wetted with malathion to open flames or electric heat sources (eg, hair dryer, curling iron, flat iron). Do not smoke while applying lotion or while hair is wet.
B
Adverse events have not been observed in animal reproduction studies
Organophosphate that acts as a pediculicide by inhibiting cholinesterase activity in Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice and their ova)
- Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
- Patient may experience burning or stinging. Have patient report immediately to prescriber severe scalp irritation or severe skin irritation (HCAHPS).
- Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for healthcare professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience and judgment in diagnosing, treating and advising patients.