Ovide (Malathion) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 9, 2012

Ovide

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis) »

What are head lice?

Head lice are parasites that can be found on the heads of people. Infection with head lice is called pediculosis.

(The head louse, Pediculus humanus capitis, is different from the lice that cause body and pubic-hair infections.)

How common is head lice infestation?

Head lice infection is very common. It has been estimated that up to one in every 10 children in school acquires head lice at some time. In one study, the estimated annual cost of head lice infestations in the United States was nearly $1 billion dollars.

Who is at risk for getting head lice?

Anyone who comes in close contact with someone who already has head lice, or even their contaminated clothing and other belongings, is at risk for acquiring head lice. Preschool and elementary school children (3-10 years of age) and their families are infected most often. Girls contract head lice m...

Read the Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis) article »

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Ovide User Reviews >>

Ovide

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow Pictures

Quiz: Can You Identify These Skin Conditions?

Gallery of Skin Problems and Image Collection

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Ovide®
(malathion) Lotion, 0.5%

For topical use only. Not for oral or ophthalmic use.

DRUG DESCRIPTION

OVIDE Lotion contains 0.005 g of malathion per mL in a vehicle of isopropyl alcohol (78%), terpineol, dipentene, and pine needle oil. The chemical name of malathion is (±) - [(dimethoxyphosphinothioyl) - thio] butanedioic acid diethyl ester. Malathion has a molecular weight of 330.36, represented by C₁₀H₁₉O₆PS₂, and has the following chemical structure:

Ovide® (malathion) Structural Formula Illustration

What are the possible side effects of malathion (Ovide)?

Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using malathion and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

Notify your doctor if your condition worsens, or if prolonged or excessive skin or scalp irritation occurs.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Ovide »

What are the precautions when taking malathion (Ovide)?

Before using malathion, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, skin infections, skin or scalp problems (e.g., psoriasis, eczema), open sores/wounds on the scalp (e.g., minor cuts, scrapes).

Constant or forceful scratching of the scalp may lead to a bacterial skin infection. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop worsening redness or pus.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 12/27/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.