Pharmacologic Substance
malathion Audio
mal·a·thi·on [ mal-uh-thahy-on, -uhn ]
Brand Names:
Ovide
Effect:
Increased Acetylcholine Activity
May Treat:
Lice Infestations
More Information:
ChemID; DrugBank; DailyMed; PDR
Definitions related to malathion:
  • A synthetic phosphorous compound and cholinesterase inhibitor that is strictly used as a topical pediculicide. Malathion exerts its action on the nervous system of the lice by irreversibly inhibiting the activity of cholinesterase, thereby allowing acetylcholine to accumulate at cholinergic synapses and enhancing cholinergic receptor stimulation. This eventually leads to the head lice's death.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A wide spectrum aliphatic organophosphate insecticide widely used for both domestic and commercial agricultural purposes.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • The organophosphorus agent malathion.
    CDISC Terminology
    Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC), 2021
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.