Itch (cont.)
What are oral itch treatments?
Traditionally, antihistamines are used to treat itch. Examples include diphenydramine and chlorpheniramine. These medicines can induce drowsiness in many people and must be used with care before driving a car or operating heavy machinery. Although antihistamines may help itch, they seem to do so mainly by helping people fall asleep and avoid scratching at night. If falling or staying asleep is not your main problem, one of the non-sedating antihistamines may be tried. Loratidine and fexofenadine are examples of the newer, second-generation antihistamines that
are available OTC. The second-generation antihistamines do not have the sedating effects of the older, first-generation antihistamines.
When should the doctor be consulted for itching?
If home treatment isn't helping, or you notice that
scratching is affecting the skin being scratched (infection, lichenification, or
pigmentation), or the itch is disturbing your sleep, you should consult a doctor to ascertain why
you're itching. A doctor
can also prescribe stronger cortisone-based creams (for eczemas and allergies)
and prescription-grade antihistamines, if necessary, or treat the underlying
condition that is causing the itch.
Last Editorial Review: 4/21/2008
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