Pharmacologic Substance
malathion
mal·a·thi·on [ mal-uh-thahy-on, -uhn ]
Brand Names:
Ovide
Effect:
Increased Acetylcholine Activity
May Treat:
Lice Infestations
More Information:
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 ThesaurusU.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
-
A wide spectrum aliphatic organophosphate insecticide widely used for both domestic and commercial agricultural purposes.NLM Medical Subject HeadingsU.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
-
The organophosphorus agent malathion.CDISC TerminologyClinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC), 2021
Return to OpenMD Medical Dictionary
> M
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.