Ovide
Ovide (malathion) Lotion, 0.5% is a prescription pediculicide used to treat head lice infestations. The lotion contains a high level of isopropyl alcohol, making it highly flammable. It must be applied with strict safety precautions, keeping the hair away from open flames, hair dryers, or other heat sources while wet.
Dosage by Body Weight
Apply to dry hair in an amount sufficient to thoroughly wet the hair and scalp (usually 1 to 2 ounces depending on hair length). Rub gently. Allow hair to dry naturally; do not use a hair dryer or artificial heat. Wash hands immediately after application. Leave on for 8 to 12 hours, then shampoo, rinse, and use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove dead lice and eggs. A second treatment may be applied in 7 to 9 days if live lice are still present.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy of malathion have not been established in infants and children under 6 years of age.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 6 years of age due to risk of systemic absorption.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 6 years of age.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Typically contraindicated unless the child is at least 6 years of age. Consult a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Thoroughly wet hair and scalp
- Frequency
- Single topical application
- Tracking Notes
- Apply only if the child is 6 years of age or older. Apply to dry hair, allow to air dry naturally, and wash off after 8 to 12 hours. Repeat in 7-9 days only if live lice are still present.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy of malathion have not been established in infants and children under 6 years of age. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 6 years of age due to risk of systemic absorption. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Contraindicated. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 6 years of age. |
| 11-15 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Typically contraindicated unless the child is at least 6 years of age. Consult a pediatrician. |
| 16-20 kg | Thoroughly wet hair and scalp | Single topical application | Apply only if the child is 6 years of age or older. Apply to dry hair, allow to air dry naturally, and wash off after 8 to 12 hours. Repeat in 7-9 days only if live lice are still present. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and their eggs (ova) in adults and children 6 years of age and older.
Generic Name
MalathionScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.