Atopic Dermatitis Medication

Atopic Dermatitis Medication

Many medications are available on today’s market that can help to treat the effects of atopic dermatitis.

Certain medications must be prescribed by a doctor, but there are others that are available for purchase over-the-counter at a majority of local drugstores, which can come in the form of topical creams or oral medications.

Topical creams and ointments to treat atopic dermatitis are available both from a doctor and over-the-counter. A majority of the time doctors will suggest that a patient try an over-the-counter method first before he or she offers a prescription.

Most creams and ointments will contain hydrocortisone, which will help alleviate or reduce inflammation and itching. A majority of the time, these products with hydrocortisone will be found with allergy medications.

If the over-the-counter methods are ineffective on a patient’s atopic dermatitis, then a doctor may prescribe an ointment or cream that contains corticosteroids.

Corticosteroids are generally just a stronger version of hydrocortisone. Although topical creams with corticosteroids are recommended for atopic dermatitis, they should also be used in small amounts as side effects may include thinning of the skin and stretch marks, if too much is used.

If the hydrocortisone and corticosteroids don’t work, then a doctor can be able to prescribe products that contain calcineurin inhibitors. These inhibitors will help to repair the previously damaged skin and help prevent new atopic dermatitis breakouts from occurring. There is an increased risk of skin cancer associated with using products that contain calcineurin inhibitors.

Oral medications that can be used to treat atopic dermatitis include allergy medications that contain antihistamines. These medications will help to reduce inflammation and itching. Depending on the type of oral medication a person takes, there is a chance that drowsiness will be a significant side effect.

Oral corticosteroids are also available which, just like their topical counterparts, they must be prescribed by a doctor or healthcare provider.

Featured Image: DepositPhotos/Tharakorn

 

Posted on May 5, 2023