Malathion: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Generic Medicine Info Patient Medicine Information

This information is not country-specific. Please refer to the Indonesia prescribing information.

Generic Medicine Info

Indications and Dosage

Topical/Cutaneous
Head pediculosis

Adult: As 0.5% lotion: Apply sufficient amount to dry hair, allow to dry naturally, then shampoo and rinse after 8-12 hours. May repeat application, after 7-9 days, if lice is still present.
Child: ≥6 years Same as adult dose.

Contraindications

Neonates/infants.

Special Precautions

Childn. Pregnancy and lactation.

Adverse Reactions

Dermatologic: Irritation of skin and scalp, burn and stinging sensation, dry hair, transient increase in dandruff.

Pregnancy Category (US FDA)

Topical: B

Patient Counseling Information

Avoid hair exposure to open flames or other heat sources.

Monitoring Parameters

Monitor for severe skin irritation.

Action

Description:
Mechanism of Action: Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide which acts as a pediculicide by inhibiting cholinesterase activity in Pediculus humanus var. capitis (head lice), resulting in rapid and massive muscle paralysis and death. It has also ovicidal activity against nits (eggs) that prevents final hatching of the nymph.

Chemical Structure

Storage

Store between 20-25°C. Protect from heat and open flames.

MIMS Class

Topical Antifungals & Antiparasites

ATC Classification

P03AX03 - malathion ; Belongs to the class of other ectoparasiticides including scabicides.

References

Anon. Malathion. Lexicomp Online. Hudson, Ohio. Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. https://online.lexi.com. Accessed 06/07/2017.

Buckingham R (ed). Malathion. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference [online]. London. Pharmaceutical Press. https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 06/07/2017.

Joint Formulary Committee. Malathion. British National Formulary [online]. London. BMJ Group and Pharmaceutical Press. https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 06/07/2017.

Malathion Lotion (Suven Life Sciences Limited). DailyMed. Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/. Accessed 06/07/2017.

McEvoy GK, Snow EK, Miller J et al (eds). Malathion (Topical). AHFS Drug Information (AHFS DI) [online]. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 06/07/2017.

Disclaimer: This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Malathion from various references and is provided for your reference only. Therapeutic uses, prescribing information and product availability may vary between countries. Please refer to MIMS Product Monographs for specific and locally approved prescribing information. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, MIMS shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2025 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com