What medication can quickly relieve itching from mosquito bites?

Jun 20, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My sister was bitten by an insect and it's very itchy. I'm not sure what medication to use. What medicine can quickly relieve itching from insect bites?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
To quickly relieve itching after mosquito bites, you can consider the following medications: 1. Antihistamines: Such as loratadine or cetirizine. These medications inhibit histamine release and thus help reduce itching. 2. Corticosteroids: For more severe reactions to mosquito bites, topical corticosteroids such as compound beclomethasone and camphor cream may be applied externally, or oral prednisone taken, to rapidly reduce skin inflammation and itching. 3. Topical treatments: Such as calamine lotion or phenol-containing cortex moutan cream. These agents have cooling, anti-itch, and anti-inflammatory effects, effectively relieving discomfort caused by mosquito bites. When using any medication, follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional or as indicated on the product label, and carefully monitor for any skin reactions. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid scratching to prevent infection.