What is Ovide: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Ovide overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Ovide

Generic Names:

  • Malathion

Uses:

  • Treats head lice infection.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Pediculicide

Forms:

  • Lotion

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Ovide used for?

Ovide is an antiparasitic used to treat and prevent head lice infection. It is also used in the treatment of scabies. It destroys the lice and their eggs from your hair and scalp. Ovide is indicated for use by adults and children 6 years and older. This medication is available as a lotion.

What form(s) does Ovide come in

  • Lotion

What are common Ovide doses?

  • Bottle 59ML of 0.5%

Common Ovide prescriptions

  • Ovide
    59ml of 0.5% bottle

How to take Ovide

  • This medicine is flammable. Keep the lotion and wet hair away from open flames. Do not use electric heat sources such as hair dryers and curlers while your hair is wet. Do not smoke while you apply this medicine or while your hair is wet.

  • To use:Apply the lotion to dry hair and rub it in until your hair and scalp are thoroughly moistened.Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. Leave your hair uncovered and allow it to dry naturally. Do not use a hair dryer.After 8 to 12 hours, wash your hair with a non-medicated shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.After rinsing, use a fine-toothed (nit) comb to remove the dead lice and eggs.If lice are still present after 7 to 9 days, use a second application of malathion lotion.

  • Use on scalp hair only. Keep your eyes tightly closed while you apply this medicine. Wash your scalp right away if skin irritation occurs.

  • To use:Apply the lotion to dry hair and rub it in until your hair and scalp are thoroughly moistened.Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. Leave your hair uncovered and allow it to dry naturally. Do not use a hair dryer.After 8 to 12 hours, wash your hair with a non-medicated shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.After rinsing, use a fine-toothed (nit) comb to remove the dead lice and eggs.If lice are still present after 7 to 9 days, use a second application of malathion lotion.

  • Use on scalp hair only. Keep your eyes tightly closed while you apply this medicine. Wash your scalp right away if skin irritation occurs.

  • This medicine is flammable. Keep the lotion and wet hair away from open flames. Do not use electric heat sources such as hair dryers and curlers while your hair is wet. Do not smoke while you apply this medicine or while your hair is wet.

What to do if you miss a dose of Ovide

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.

Ovide contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to malathion. You should not use this medicine on children younger than 1 year of age.

Ovide warnings

  • Call your doctor right away if you have pain or blistering after you use this medicine.

  • Do not use this medicine on your child unless your doctor says it is okay.

  • Wash your scalp and hair immediately if skin irritation occurs. If the irritation goes away after you wash your hair, you may apply the medicine again. If the irritation happens again, check with your doctor.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Be careful not get any of this medicine in your eyes. If you do, flush your eyes with water for at least 10 minutes. Check with your doctor if your eyes become irritated or your vision changes.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Call a doctor or poison control center right away if you accidentally swallow this medicine.

Ovide interactions

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Do not use this medicine on your child unless your doctor says it is okay.

  • Call your doctor right away if you have pain or blistering after you use this medicine.

  • Wash your scalp and hair immediately if skin irritation occurs. If the irritation goes away after you wash your hair, you may apply the medicine again. If the irritation happens again, check with your doctor.

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Be careful not get any of this medicine in your eyes. If you do, flush your eyes with water for at least 10 minutes. Check with your doctor if your eyes become irritated or your vision changes.

  • Call a doctor or poison control center right away if you accidentally swallow this medicine.

Ovide side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Pain, reddening, or swelling of the skin

  • Blistering and peeling of the skin

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Burning, dry, or itching eyes or changes in your vision

  • Stinging sensation or irritation on your scalp or skin