Antipruritic

Antipruritics, also known as anti-itch drugs, are medications that inhibit the itching (Latin: pruritus) that is often associated with sunburns, allergic reactions, eczema, psoriasis, chickenpox, fungal infections, insect bites and stings like those from mosquitoes, fleas, and mites, and contact dermatitis and urticaria caused by plants such as poison ivy (urushiol-induced contact dermatitis) or stinging nettle.

Common antipruritics
Topical antipruritics in the form of creams and sprays are often available over-the-counter. Oral (by-mouth) anti-itch drugs also exist and are usually prescription drugs. The active ingredients usually belong to the following classes:


 * Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
 * Corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone topical cream
 * Local anesthetics such as benzocaine topical cream (Lanacaine)
 * Counterirritants, such as mint oil, menthol, or camphor

Disputed and questionable antipruritics

 * Calamine lotion (zinc oxide with iron(III) oxide), some say has little if any effect on itching, although other research indicates it has some antipruritic qualities
 * Burow's solution (aluminium acetate)
 * Olive oil
 * Jewelweed, has been shown to be devoid of any anti-itch activity in several controlled studies
 * SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) comprise a class of medicines commonly used for depression, and are also said to be effective in controlling pruritus in a small number of refractory cases.

Home remedies

 * Cooling with ice or cold water
 * Heat, for example by a hot shower. Dabbing with a cloth dipped in boiling water can be very effective, as it causes the cells to release all their histamine.
 * Soft rubbing, which activates fast-conducting, low-threshold neurons
 * Slightly painful stimulation like scratching, based on a spinal antagonism between pain- and itch-processing neurons
 * Mixture of Rose water and starch can have an itch-calming effect