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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffTreatment of bedbug bites is aimed at relieving symptoms. Bites usually resolve within one to two weeks.
- Apply a topical cream, such as cortisone, to relieve itching.
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection.
- Consult your doctor if you have severe reactions. An oral antibiotic may be recommended if infection occurs. Oral corticosteroids may be recommended for severe allergic reaction.
- Take antihistamines if needed to help relieve allergic reactions.
Once your symptoms are treated, you must tackle the infestation. First, you'll need to freeze pajamas, sheets and other bedclothes for at least 24 hours or launder them in hot water of at least 97 F (36 C). Vacuum the area of infestation daily and freeze the vacuum bags for 24 hours. Insecticide sprays such as dichlorvos, permethrin and malathion must be used around cracks and crevices in your home. Lawn and garden insect control sprays may contain these insecticides, and garden stores may have permethrin. However, this difficult task likely requires a professional inspection of the bedbug habitat and subsequent extermination.
