Question 1

usually go to the doctor this time of year and get a shot, really don't want to go in doctor office right now, but have poison ivy again.  what is best over the counter product to use?

poison ivy

Accepted Answer

Poison ivy: Please do not put off any regular medical care. It could have serious medical implications for your health! AS for the Poison Ivy, right after exposure, using rubbing alcohol can rapidly remove the urushiol oil from your skin so that the reaction is minimized. after that, use oral antihistamines, oatmeal plasters/bath, cold compresses, and bentonite clay mask to manage the itchiness and pain.

Question 2

are over-the-counter poison ivy medications helpful for shingles?

Accepted Answer

Not Very: Shingles pain is caused by the internal irritation of nerves. Poison Ivy pain is a skin irritation.

Question 3

since im allergic to calamine lotion an poison ivy what over-the-counter products may i use?

Accepted Answer

Try Benadryl (diphenhydramine) lotion: You can try topical Benadryl (diphenhydramine) lotion/cream, or a mild cortisone cream (0.5% if covering large area, 1% ok if localized / small areas). Try one at a time & see how they work for you. If neither, will need zyrtec + Pepcid (generics ok) +/- prescribed steroid pills. See urgent care if no relief.

Question 4

i have poison ivy all over my arms my left knee left ankle and now middle torso. should i use something over the counter or should i contact a clinic and get a prescription. any suggestions.

poison ivy?

Accepted Answer

Clinic: It sounds like relatively extensive contact dermatitis from poison ivy.  You would likely benefit from a good exam to rule out secondary infections and possibly systemic (oral or injectable) steroids.

Question 5

i have a really severe case of poison ivy, i don't have medical insurance. would it be best for me to go to the er? tied otc meds and creams, nothing is helping.

Accepted Answer

For : For poison ivy, sometimes a patient will need a prescription steroid gel/cream or maybe steroid pills or injection.  This can be evaluated by your dermatologist or primary care doctor in most cases.  I hope that helps!  see a pic of poison ivy at the link below!

Question 6

best otc for severe poison ivy around face neck ears and hands?  can it be dangerous and what to watch for if so?

Accepted Answer

OTC RX FOR POISON IV: Benadryl (diphenhydramine) every 4 hours to stop the itching, but ba careful will make you drowsy, calamine lotion and over the counter 1%hydrocortisone cream twice a day.
But if it is severe and since you say face is involved, you should  see your doctor as you may need systemic steroids by mouth for up to six days.
It can get secondary infection and leave some scaring if not properly treated.

Question 7

what i thought were mosquito bites continue to persist after 5 days. i think i may have  come into contact with poison ivy. what is best otc meds to  take or should i go to the doctor? benadryl and hydrocortisone are not doing the trick. advice please?

Accepted Answer

Plant dermatitis: Plant dermatitis like poison ivy will best respond to oral steroids for a 3 week course.  You should get the rash looked at to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate therapy.

Question 8

what are the best meds for poison ivy or sumac?

Accepted Answer

Aviodance: First avoid if possible.  Wash with soapy water, then keep clean and dry.  If a rash erupts, see your doctor for steroid containing medications.

Question 9

what work best to treat poison ivy or oak?

Accepted Answer

Corticosteroids: First, you must avoid the exposure and wash all clothing and tools that might have the sap on them as the sap can be active for up to 6 months. Mild cases can respond to topical steroid creams but more extensive or severe cases need oral corticosteroids. Poin ivy on the eye can cause blindness and needs to evaluated and treated by a physician immediately. Antihistamines will not clear the rash.

Question 10

can you please describe the best ways for getting rid of poison ivy?

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines : Antihistamines will help the itch
dont forget to wash all clothing you could have had on withing several days of potential exposure.

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Doctor answers about:

Best over the counter medicine for poison ivy

A member asked:

Usually go to the doctor this time of year and get a shot, really don't want to go in doctor office right now, but have poison ivy again. what is best over the counter product to use? poison ivy

A member asked:

Are over-the-counter poison ivy medications helpful for shingles?

A member asked:

Since im allergic to calamine lotion an poison ivy what over-the-counter products may i use?

A member asked:

I have poison ivy all over my arms my left knee left ankle and now middle torso. should i use something over the counter or should i contact a clinic and get a prescription. any suggestions. poison ivy?

A member asked:

I have a really severe case of poison ivy, i don't have medical insurance. would it be best for me to go to the er? tied otc meds and creams, nothing is helping.

A member asked:

Best otc for severe poison ivy around face neck ears and hands? can it be dangerous and what to watch for if so?

A member asked:

What i thought were mosquito bites continue to persist after 5 days. i think i may have come into contact with poison ivy. what is best otc meds to take or should i go to the doctor? benadryl and hydrocortisone are not doing the trick. advice please?

A member asked:

What are the best meds for poison ivy or sumac?

A member asked:

What work best to treat poison ivy or oak?

A member asked:

Can you please describe the best ways for getting rid of poison ivy?

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