Malathion skin lotion

What is this medicine?

MALATHION (mal uh THAHY on) skin lotion is used to treat lice of the hair and scalp. It acts by destroying the lice and their eggs.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the product label. Do not wash hair with conditioner or a combination shampoo-conditioner immediately before applying this medicine. Follow product-specific instructions for length of application and product removal. All products should be rinsed from the hair over a sink or tub to limit skin exposure; do not use hot water. In general, do not re-wash the hair for 1 to 2 days after use.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• redness or irritation of the eyes

• severe skin irritation or burning

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• itching that continues beyond 7 days

• mild skin irritation

• redness of the scalp

• stinging of the scalp

• tingling sensation

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medicine is normally used as a single dose.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Malathion is a poison if swallowed. Contact a poison control center immediately and seek medical attention should this medicine be swallowed.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. This medicine is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking. After treatment, throw away any unused medicine in a container that cannot be reached by children or pets.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• asthma

• rashes or open sores on the skin

• an unusual or allergic reaction to malathion, alcohol, pine or pine scented products, veterinary or household insecticides, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• breast feeding

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This medicine is used as a single application treatment. Itching may occur for several days after treatment. This does not mean that the treatment has failed. If live lice are observed in 7 to 9 days after initial application, a second treatment may be needed. Contact your doctor before applying a second treatment.

If skin irritation occurs, wash scalp and hair immediately. If the irritation clears, the lotion may be reapplied. If irritation recurs or continues, consult your doctor or health care professional. Slight stinging sensations may occur while using this lotion.

All recently worn clothing, underwear, pajamas, used sheets, pillowcases, and towels should be washed in very hot water or dry-cleaned. Close personal contact can spread the infestation. Family members and sexual contacts may also require treatment for lice.