Medications for Eczema
by
Michelle Badash, MS The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor. The following medications may be recommended or prescribed by your doctor to treat atopic dermatitis, depending on location and severity of the rash. They are sometimes used in combination. In particular, consult with your doctor before giving any medications to infants or younger children. Prescription MedicationsTopical corticosteroids, such as:
Prescription Moisturizers
Prescription or Over-the-Counter Medications
Prescription MedicationsCorticosteroidsThere are many different corticosteroid ointments and creams available in a variety of strengths. In general, ointments are used for dry skin and creams for moist rashes or large areas. The following are among the most commonly used corticosteroids: Common names include:
Corticosteroids are a type of steroid medication used to help relieve swelling, itching, and redness of skin. They are usually used topically as creams or ointments, but can be used orally as pills or even by IV in extreme rare cases. Carefully follow directions for use, and do not use this medication for longer than prescribed. Possible side effects include:
Nonsteroidal Topical ImmunomodulatorsCommon names include:
These nonsteroidal topical medications are used for the short-term and intermittent or long-term treatment of mild to moderate eczema in patients age 2 and older. These topicals may be used on all parts of the body, including delicate areas such as the face, neck, and skin folds, where corticosteroids are usually not recommended long-term. Possible side effects include temporary mild warmth, burning, or itching. AntibioticsIf you develop a bacterial skin infection, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. These may be given orally, topically, or even by IV for severe infections requiring hospitalization. The type of drug and dosage will depend on your skin infection. Prescription or Over-the-Counter MedicationsAntihistaminesCommon names include:
Your doctor may recommend a nonprescription antihistamine to help relieve itching. Since they cause drowsiness, they are especially useful at night. Side effects include:
Special ConsiderationsWhenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:
References:
Atopic dermatitis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115212/Atopic-dermatitis
. Updated July 3, 2017. Accessed December 20, 2017.
Eczema. Kids Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated June 2015 . Accessed December 21, 2017. Eczema. National Eczema Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 21, 2017. Eczema and atopic dermatitis. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/eczema-and-atopic-dermatitis/?adfree=true. Updated June 2017. Accessed December 20, 2017. Plötz S, Wiesender M, et al. What is new in atopic
dermatitis/eczema?
Expert Opin Emerg Drugs. 2014 Dec;19(4):441-58. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods MD, FAAP | |
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