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Brand Names: Ovide

Generic Name: malathion topical (Pronunciation: MAL a THYE on TOP i kal)

• What is malathion (Ovide)?
• What are the possible side effects of malathion (Ovide)?
• What is the most important information I should know about malathion (Ovide)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using malathion (Ovide)?
• How should I use malathion (Ovide)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Ovide)?
• What happens if I overdose (Ovide)?
• What should I avoid while using malathion (Ovide)?
• What other drugs will affect malathion (Ovide)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is malathion (Ovide)?

Malathion is an anti-parasite medication.

Malathion is used to treat head lice.

Malathion may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe stinging, burning, or irritation of your scalp that will not go away.

Less serious side effects may include mild stinging or scalp irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Do not use this medication on a child younger than 6 years old. Do not allow an older child to use malathion without supervision of an adult.

Malathion lotion is flammable. Do not use this medication near high heat or open flame. Do not use a curling iron, hair dryer, or other heat styler on treated hair. Warn children to stay away from open flames and electric heat sources while the hair is wet.

For the most complete treatment of lice or scabies and to prevent reinfection, you must treat your environment (clothing, bedding, pillows, furniture, hats, hair brushes and accessories, etc) at the same time you treat your scalp.

Avoid sexual or intimate contact with others until your lice or scabies infection has cleared up. Avoid sharing hair brushes, combs, hair accessories, hats, clothing, bed linens, and other articles of personal use. Lice and scabies infections are highly contagious.

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