WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR PRURITUS?

* Be aware that the recommended treatments of illnesses are always being improved. This website was last update on 11/1/2024. The best treatment option MIGHT have changed since that time.

Creams:
1. Capsaicin # {OTC} (Topical Anesthetic)

2. Pramoxine Cream # {OTC} (1, 5, 12%): a topical anesthetic. (CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream)

3. Steroid Creams # {OTC & RX} (e.g. Hydrocortisone Cream)

4. Tacrolimus Ointment # {RX} (.03% or .1%) {Works by decreasing the immune system reaction: MIGHT increase the risk of cancer}

Pills:
1. Zyrtec # {OTC}

2. Benadryl # {OTC}

3. Fexofenadine # {OTC} (Allegra) 60 mg orally 2 times a day

4. Doxepin # {RX} (Antidepressant)

5. Gabapentin # {RX}100 mg

6. Hydroxyzine # ATARAX {RX} 25-50 mg orally once/day

CAUTION:

1. All medication, including medications those that reduce pruritus have a risk of side effects.

2. When starting a new cream or lotion always try it on a small area of skin first.

3. Possible mild side effects are sedation, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, and light skin rash.

4. Possible severe side effects are a severe rash or an anaphylactic allergic reaction (leading to the inability to breathe and subsequent death if not treated rapidly).

Consult “Epocrates.com” for each Specific Medication’s possible “Adverse Reactions.” Side effects are also referred to as “Adverse Reactions.” Epocrates.com will tell you both “common reactions” and “serious reactions.” You will have to create an account, but it is simple, fast, and free.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PRURITUS (ITCHY SKIN)?

Itchy Skin is actually the symptom. It is an uncomfortable, irritating sensation that makes a person want to scratch.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF PRURITUS (ITCHY SKIN)?

There are many causes of Prutitus (Itchy Skin).

1. Skin are many conditions have the symptoms of itching. Some of these are dry skin (Xerosis), eczema
(dermatitis), psoriasis, scabies, lice, parasites, burns, scars, insect bites and hives.

2. Certain Illnesses also cause itching. Illnesses such as liver disease, and kidney disease

3. Certain nerve related disorders. Examples are multiple sclerosis, pinched nerves and shingles (herpes zoster).

4. Some chemicals and fabrics can cause pruritus. Examples are wool, poison ivy, and poison oak.

5. Allergies to both medications and food can cause itchy skin.

HOW IS PRURITUS DIAGNOSED?

Pruritus can be made by a careful history. Sometimes, but not always the cause of the pruritus can be determined.