Malathion Head Lice Treatment

Malathion Head Lice Treatment
One of the great controversies of treating a head lice infestation surrounds the use of insecticide lotions and shampoos, with reports of side effects – sometimes quite severe – being off-putting to many. The three main insecticides used – Malathion, Permethrin and Lindane – all have reported problems, and in the case of the latter reports of severe seizures and even fatalities have led to it being removed from use in many countries, although it is still available on prescription in the USA.
Among the three one of the most popular is Malathion, as used in the very widely prescribed Ovide, a lotion that is known to have an effect on head lice and their nymphs when used in many cases. It is a fact, however, that no insecticide will kill all of the well protected nits – the head lice eggs – and these need to be treated with a different method.
Among the known side effects of Malathion are those of a dry scalp, a stinging sensation and a possible increase in dandruff, and the substance should not be used – like all insecticide products – on those who have open wounds or a prior skin condition. It needs to be kept away from the eyes, too, and pregnant women are strongly advised to steer clear of insecticide products.
These minor side effects are acknowledged by the FDA, and the lotions – Ovide among them – are considered safe for use when the instructions are followed.
One thing that should be borne in mind is that Ovide is not recommended for children under the age of six (in fact no insecticide products are) and if the infestation is present on the head of such an infant, and it is very likely, then medical advice should be sought as to what steps to take.
The alternatives are the natural shampoos that abound on the market – many with the very popular Tea Tree oil, a medicinal herbal remedy favored by the Aborigines of Australia, present – and the trusty nit comb, an essential item in any treatment regime. Head lice combs are available in two types, the traditional version with the very close teeth and a newer version that works by administering an electric shock. The shock may be fatal to the lice but is not felt by the patient, being provided by a standard battery.
Using insecticides such as Malathion has been shown to work, yet it is not everybody’s choice to coat the head with poisons; consider your options carefully.