Dosing and uses of Ovide (malathion)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
lotion
- 0.5%
Head Lice
Hair: Apply to dry hair, leave in 8-12 hours
May repeat if lice are present after 7-9 days
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
lotion
- 0.5%
Head Lice
< 6 years
- Safety & efficacy not established
> 6 years
- Hair: Apply to dry hair, leave in 8-12 hours
- May repeat if lice are present after 7-9 days
Ovide (malathion) adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
Stinging sensation
Contact hypersensitivity reaction
Chemical burns, including second-degree burns
Skin and scalp irritation
Conjunctivitis, accidental contact with eyes (mild)
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity, neonates (<28 days) and infants
Cautions
Ovide is flammable: avoid hair dryer (allow hair to dry naturally), smoking, etc
Chemical burns including second-degree burns reported
Discontinue use if skin irritation occurs
Children should use product under adult supervision
Leave hair uncovered after application
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: B
Lactation: Safety in nursing infants unknown
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Ovide (malathion)
Mechanism of action
Inhibits cholinesterase
