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Malathion - Learn about Malathion Side Effects and Precautions

Malathion Information

The pharmacology action of Malathion is that it inhibits cholinesterase activity

Malathion is used in treatment of head lice ( Pediculus humanus capitis ) and their ova of the scalp hair.

Interaction and Contraindication of Malathion

Interaction of Malathion - Cardiac glycosides (eg, digoxin):  Administer Malathion with extreme caution because of serious changes in cardiac conduction, which can result in heart block, may occur if administration of calcium is required to treat magnesium toxicity.
CNS depressants (eg, barbiturates, narcotics):  Possible additive CNS depressant effects.
Neuromuscular blocking agents:  Potentiation of neuromuscular blockade.
Nitrofurantoin:  Decreased absorption of nitrofurantoin (oral magnesium).
Penicillamine:  Reduced penicillamine effects (oral magnesium).
Tetracyclines:  Decreased absorption of tetracyclines (oral magnesium).

Contraindication of Malathion - Neonates and infants; hypersensitivity to any component of the product.

Side Effects o f Malathion

Here are the list of some common side effects ofMalathion :

• Irritation to skin and scalp
• Conjunctivitis caused by accidental contact with eyes

Precaution and Warning while taking Malathion

The precaution and warnings of Malathion drug is as follows:

• Caution patient or caregiver that medication has potential for causing serious harm and not to exceed prescribed dose or apply more frequently than prescribed by health care provider. Advise patient or caregiver to not reapply unless specifically advised by health care provider.
• Caution patient or caregiver to avoid contact with eyes and that if accidental eye contact occurs to immediately flush the eyes with water to remove medication. Advise patient or caregiver to notify health care provider if eye irritation or sensitivity follows exposure to the eyes.
• Caution patient or caregiver that medication may be toxic if swallowed and to seek medical care immediately in case of accidental ingestion.
• Teach patient or caregiver proper technique for applying lotion: apply lotion on dry hair in amount just sufficient to thoroughly wet hair and scalp; wash hands after applying lotion; allow hair to dry naturally; after 8 to 12 hr (eg, overnight) shampoo hair; rinse and use fine-toothed (nit) comb to remove dead lice and eggs.
• Caution patient or caregiver that lotion is flammable and not to smoke while applying lotion or expose treated hair to open flames or electric heat sources (eg, hair dryer, electric curler) until hair is dry.
• Advise patient or caregiver that slight stinging sensations may be noted following application but that this is expected and should not be bothersome.

How to store Malathion

• For topical use only. Not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use.
• Lotion is flammable. Do not expose treated hair to open flames or electric heat sources (eg, hair dryer, electric curler) until hair is dry.
• Avoid contact with eyes. If eye contact occurs, flush immediately and thoroughly with water.
• Use gloves if applying to patient; apply lotion on dry hair in amount just sufficient to thoroughly wet hair and scalp; wash hands after applying lotion; allow hair to dry naturally; after 8 to 12 hr (eg, overnight) shampoo hair; rinse and use fine-toothed (nit) comb to remove dead lice and eggs.
• Treatment may be repeated once after 7 to 9 days if lice are still present.
• Store lotion at controlled room temperature (68° to 77°F). Keep bottle tightly capped and away from heat and open flame.