GENERIC NAME: MALATHION - TOPICAL (mal-uh-THIGH-on)
BRAND NAME(S): Ovide
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat head lice.
HOW TO USE: Apply this medication onto dry hair and to the skin under the hair (scalp). Use enough medication to make the hair and scalp wet, especially the back of your head and neck. Allow your hair to air-dry (uncovered). Wash your hands (or the person applying the medicine should wash their hands) after applying this medication. Allow this medication to remain on the hair and scalp for 8 to 12 hours; then shampoo your hair well, especially the back of the head and neck. Rinse your hair and run a fine-toothed comb (nit comb) through your hair to remove dead lice and lice eggs. If lice are still present after 7-9 days, repeat with a second application of this medication. This medication may cause a slight stinging feeling on the scalp. This is normal. However, if skin irritation occurs, wash the scalp and hair immediately, allow the irritation to clear and try using the medication again. If the irritation returns, consult your doctor. This medication contains an ingredient that could easily start on fire (flammable). Avoid smoking, being around open flames (e.g., fireplaces, stoves), using hair dryers, or using electric curlers while using this medication. Avoid getting this medication in, or around your eyes. If this medication gets in your eye(s), rinse your eye(s) immediately with water. If eye irritation continues, or if visual changes occur, consult your doctor. Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If you have any questions about any of that information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stinging feeling on the scalp and minor irritation to the skin and scalp may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: trouble breathing, vision changes, redness/itching/ swelling of the eye(s) (conjunctivitis). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis) - Get the facts on head lice (pediculosis) infection symptoms, signs, prevention, treatment and information on home remedies, and learn what head lice (and nits) look like.
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