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February 10, 2012
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antihistamines-topical

GENERIC NAME: ANTIHISTAMINES - TOPICAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is an antihistamine used on the skin to relieve itching associated with various skin disorders such as insect bites, sunburn or poison ivy.

HOW TO USE: This medication is for topical use only. Clean and dry the affected area as directed. Then apply a small amount of the medication on the skin. A thin layer is all that is needed. Cover with a bandage if directed to do so. Do not use large amounts or apply this more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased. Use carefully if applying to the face. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause burning, redness, or a rash. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms occur. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, other infections, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use, especially of: skin products containing hydrocortisone. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include abnormal eye movements, dry mouth, change in amount of urine, fever, hyperactivity, bizarre behavior, or seizures.

NOTES: If the condition for which this was prescribed does not improve or becomes worse after a few days, notify your doctor.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.


Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005




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antihistamines-topical

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac facts

  • Many people are susceptible to the rashes of poison ivy, oak, and sumac.


  • The sap oil, called urushiol, causes the skin rash.


  • Poison ivy is not contagious.


  • Washing the oily sap from the skin with water and soap immediately can help prevent the rash.


  • Avoiding direct contact with the plants can prevent the rash.

What causes the rash? How do I identify poison ivy, oak, and sumac?

Poison ivy is a common cause of contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction to something that comes in direct contact with the skin. Allergic contact dermatitis as a response to plants is sometimes referred to as allergic phytodermatitis. This condition can be quite unpleasant but does not typically pose serious health risks. Prevention of the condition is best.

...

Read the Poison Ivy article »




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