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Malathion

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Malathion Lice Care Adult, Children

Malathion - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Malathion cause?

Possible side effects include: 

  • Unpleasant smell
  • Skin irritation 

If any of the side effects do not go away or are serious, please see your doctor.

Rare but serious side effects include:

  • Burns
  • Symptoms of a drug allergy:
    • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
    • Difficulty in breathing
      Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Malathion , what precautions must I follow?

  • ​Do not use more than once a week for three weeks at a time.
  • Do not use more than what is recommended by your doctor.
  • Do not apply on broken skin.
  • If this medication accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse with water thoroughly. If irritation of the eyes persists, see a doctor immediately.
  • As this medication is flammable, keep this medication and wet treated hair away from electrical heat sources, cigarettes and open flames.
  • To avoid reinfestation and spreading of lice to other people:
    • Head-to-head contact during play and other activities should be avoided.
    • Do not share combs, brushes, towels and clothing.
    • Combs and brushes should be soaked in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
    • Wash all bedsheets, pillowcases, recently worn clothing (in the past 2 days before treatment) in hot water and dry under direct sunlight or in a hot cycle dryer. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in plastic bags for 2 weeks.
    • Vacuum the floor and furniture, especially the area where the infested person sat or lay.
  • To avoid reinfestation and spreading of mites to other people:
    • Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with an infested person or with items used by an infested person.
    • Wash all bedsheets, pillowcases, recently worn clothing (in the past 3 days before treatment) in hot water and dry under direct sunlight or in a hot cycle dryer. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in plastic bags for at least 3 days to 1 week.
  • Inform your healthcare professional if:
    • You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
    • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Malathion ?

​Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.

Malathion - Additional Information

  • Updated on 4/30/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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