Ovide (Malathion) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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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 Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Ovide

Generic Name: malathion (topical) (Pronunciation: ma la THIGH on)

What is malathion (Ovide)?

Malathion is a pediculicide. It affects the nervous system of parasites (lice).

Malathion is used to treat head lice.

Malathion may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about malathion (Ovide)?

Do not take this medication by mouth.

Do not use malathion to treat an infant. The scalp of an infant is thin and may absorb more malathion, which could be dangerous. Malathion is not approved for use by children younger than 6 years of age. Malathion should only be used to treat a child under the direct supervision of an adult, when prescribed by a doctor.

Malathion lotion is flammable. Do not expose the lotion or wet hair to open flames or electric heat sources including hair dryers, curling irons, and electric curlers. Do not smoke while applying the lotion or while the hair is wet. Warn children to stay away from open flames, lighted cigarettes, and electric heat sources while the hair is wet.

Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, flush the eye immediately with water.

To prevent reinfection, wash all clothing, hats, bed clothes, bed linens, hair brushes, and combs in hot water with a strong cleanser. Also, other family members may require treatment.

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