Malathion - topical

Malathion is used to treat lice and mite infestation on the skin.

Apply Malathion exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as liquid or lotion.

How to apply for the treatment of head lice:

1. Apply Malathion on dry hair in amount sufficient to thoroughly moistened the hair and scalp. Pay attention to the back of the head and neck.
2. Wash hand immediately after application.
3. Allow the hair to dry naturally uncovered, in a warm but well-ventilated room.
4. After 12 hours or the next day, shampoo the hair in the normal way.
5. Rinse the hair and use a fine-toothed/nit comb to remove dead lice and eggs.
6. If lice are still present after 7-8 days, repeat procedure.

How to apply for the treatment of pubic lice:

1. Apply Malathion to the entire skin surface, paying attention to all hairy areas including beards and moustaches. Avoid areas above the neck.
2. Wash hand immediately after application.
3. Leave on for at least one hour or overnight.
4. After 1 hour or overnight, rinse in the usual manner.
5. Repeat procedure after 7 days.

How to apply for the treatment of scabies:

1. Apply Malathion to the entire skin surface. For adults, avoid areas above the neck. For children, apply a thin film to the scalp, face and ears.
2. If administering for a child, wash your hand immediately after application.
3. Do not wash off or bathe for 24 hours. If hands or any other parts must be washed during this period, re-apply malathion immediately.
4. After 24 hours, wash off or rinse in the usual manner.
5. Repeat procedure after 7 days.

Avoid contact with eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not apply more than what is instructed by the doctor to make up for the missed dose.

Do not use Malathion to neonates or infants less than 6 months unless instructed to do so by the doctor.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child.

Do not apply on broken or infected skin.

Do not expose Malathion or treated hair to open flames or electric heat source e.g. hair dryer, curling iron, flat iron.

Do not smoke while applying Malathion or while hair is wet.

How can I prevent lice or mite infestation at home?

1. Avoid direct skin-to-skin or hair-to-hair contact with an infested person.
2. Avoid contact with the infested person’s belongings e.g. combs, hair accessories, hats, towels, clothing, bedding.
3. Clean and vacuum the room of an infested person, and machine-wash and dry-clean all his/her clothing and bedding.
4. If you are a close contact of the infested person, seek treatment immediately.

Malathion may cause any of the following side effects: irritation, burning and stinging sensation on the skin or scalp.

If you develop rashes or skin irritation, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Let your doctor know if you are using any other solutions, lotions or other medicines on the affected area.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Protect from light.

Keep away from heat and open flame.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.