What is malathion?
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 is the most important information I should know about malathion?
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.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using malathion?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to malathion.
FDA pregnancy category B. Malathion topical is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether malathion topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
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.