Malathion (Ovide) Medicare Coverage

Malathion is a medication used to treat head lice infections of the scalp and hair. Malathion contains chemicals that kill the lice on the head after you apply it.

The brand name equivalent of Malathion is called Ovide. It is typically only used once but can be repeated in 7-9 days if the infection is not gone.

People do not typically experience any significant side effects after using Malathion.

How much does Malathion cost with Medicare?

Malathion coverage and costs may vary based on the specific plan you have, as well as what coverage stage you're in.

Contact your plan carrier or consult your plan formulary for more cost information.

Does Medicare cover Malathion?

According to GoodRx, 96% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Malathion in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Malathion include copay amounts that can range widely from one plan to another. Plan members may also be responsible for meeting a deductible before the plan’s drug coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). 89% of 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included prescription drug coverage.²
  
  
• Medicare prescription drugs plans each have their own formulary, or drug list, that details what prescription drugs are covered by the plan and how they are covered.

Drug coverage may vary based on plan availability. You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plan options in your area that cover Malathion. We represent carriers such as Humana, Aetna, UHC, Anthem BCBS, Wellcare, Cigna Healthcare, and Kaiser Permanente.

You can also compare Part D prescription drug plans available where you live and enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan online when you visit MyRxPlans.com.

Additional information

Wash your hands before and after using Malathion. Do not wet your hair before applying the medication.

To use, apply a sufficient amount to cover and thoroughly moisten dry hair and scalp. Work into the hair and scalp gently. Close your eyes tightly while applying the medication.

Allow hair to dry naturally (air-dry) and do not cover hair while it dries. Shampoo and rinse fully after 8-12 hours. Use a special nit comb to get lice and dead nits from hair.

If the lice infection does not resolve, repeat with a second application in 7-9 days. Treatment beyond a second application is generally not necessary.

Wash all bedding, towels and recently worn clothes in hot water or have them dry cleaned.

Let your doctor know if you experience burning, stinging or irritation of the skin while using malathion.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not healthcare advice, treatment, or diagnosis. It is not an endorsement of or recommendation for this medication. Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific healthcare needs, including your prescription medications. Only take medication as directed by your doctor.

Coverage and costs of prescription medications will vary by Medicare plan. Not all plans are available in all areas.

Written by Hayden Gharibyar, Pharm.D.