Malathion 0.5% Lotion
Generic For: Ovide
Malathion 0.5% lotion (brand name Ovide) is a prescription topical treatment for head lice in adults and children 6 years and older. It kills live lice and many lice eggs (nits) on the scalp and hair. After a licensed provider reviews your information, your order ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.
Select Quantity *
7-day supply · $4.41/mL
How It Works
- Select your medication
- Licensed providers review & prescribe
- Our licensed U.S. pharmacists fill your prescription
- Delivered to you as soon as the next day
Price: $260.00
HSA/FSA Eligible*Doctor visit fee & delivery cost not included in price. Refills at provider discretion.
Pharmacist Support
Fast Shipping
Licensed U.S. Pharmacy
Buy Malathion 0.5% Lotion (Ovide) Online
A prescription pediculicide lotion for head lice and their eggs (nits)
Malathion 0.5% Lotion Quick Facts
| Drug class | Topical pediculicide (organophosphate) |
|---|---|
| Treats | Head lice, lice eggs (nits) |
| Form | Liquid |
| Typical dosing | Apply the lotion by sprinkling on dry hair and rubbing in until the hair and scalp are thoroughly moistened. Wash your hands right away after using the medicine. Allow the hair to dry naturally |
| Prescription required | Yes — prescription only |
What Is Malathion 0.5% Lotion?
Malathion 0.5% lotion is a prescription medication applied to the scalp and hair to treat head lice infestations. It is an organophosphate agent that works by attacking the nervous system of lice, killing live lice and many of their eggs (nits). Sold under the brand name Ovide, it is approved for use in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is applied to dry hair, left on for 8 to 12 hours, and then washed out.
What Does Malathion 0.5% Lotion Treat?
Head lice (Pediculosis capitis) in patients 6 years and older
Killing live head lice on the scalp and hair
Killing lice eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts
Retreatment when live lice are seen 7–9 days after first use
Malathion 0.5% Lotion Dosage
Apply to dry hair and scalp until thoroughly wet; allow hair to dry naturally and leave uncovered.
After 8–12 hours, wash hair with shampoo, rinse, and remove dead lice and nits with a fine-tooth comb.
Repeat once after 7–9 days only if live lice are still present.
Your prescriber will determine the dose and duration that are right for you. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.
Malathion 0.5% Lotion Side Effects
Common side effects
- Scalp irritation
- Stinging or burning of the scalp
- Skin redness at the application site
- Scalp itching
- Dryness of the scalp or hair
- Mild eye irritation if fumes contact the eyes
Serious side effects
Stop taking this medication and seek medical attention right away if you experience:
- Chemical burns of the scalp or skin
- Severe skin irritation or blistering
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Eye injury from direct contact with the lotion
- Symptoms after accidental swallowing (requires immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Interactions
Flammable — lotion and wet hair; avoid open flames, cigarettes, and electric heat sources such as hair dryers until hair is dry
For external use on scalp hair only; do not swallow
Not recommended for children under 6 years; contraindicated in neonates and infants
Avoid contact with eyes; flush immediately with water if exposed
Use on children only under adult supervision
Stop use and contact a provider if severe skin irritation occurs
Wash hands after applying
Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting malathion 0.5% lotion.
Talk to U.S.-Based Support
Our licensed pharmacy team in Boca Raton, Florida — real people, no overseas call centers.