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Malathion

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Malathion, Ovide

  • Preparations
  1. Malathion 0.5% in Isopropanol 78% (Ovide Lotion)
  • Indications
  1. Resistant Head Lice
  • Mechanism
  1. Irreversible Cholinesterase Inhibitor (Pesticide)
  • Efficacy
  1. Highly pediculicidal (kills lice)
  2. Highly ovicidal (kills eggs)
  3. Offers residual protection by binding hair
  4. Resistance has been reported
  • Directions for use
  1. Apply lotion to dry hair until hair and scalp is wet
  2. Wash hair after 8 to 12 hours
  3. Remove nits with fine-tooth comb
  4. Re-treat in 7 to 9 days (if needed)
  • Adverse Effects
  1. Very safe
    1. Little if any systemic absorption at this dose
  2. Stinging and irritation secondary to Alcohol base
  • Precautions
  1. Flammable - keep away from flame or heat source
  2. Keep lotion away from eyes
  3. No recommended for infants
  • References
  1. (1999) Med Lett Drugs Ther 41(1059):73-4 [PubMed]