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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffTo stop the stubborn itch-scratch cycle, you must stop scratching the affected area. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments.
Medications
Depending on the intensity of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe:
- Corticosteroids. If over-the-counter steroid creams aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe stronger versions of these drugs.
- Antihistamines. These anti-allergy drugs can help relieve itching in many people with neurodermatitis.
- Anti-anxiety drugs. Because anxiety and stress can trigger neurodermatitis symptoms, anti-anxiety drugs often can help prevent the itchiness associated with the disorder.
- Antibiotics. If you develop a bacterial infection in the rash, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic lotion or oral antibiotics.
Therapy
Talking with a counselor can help you learn how your emotions and behaviors can fuel — or prevent — itching and scratching.
References
- Lichen simplex chronicus (Neurodermatitis). The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic_disorders/dermatitis/lichen_simplex_chronicus.html?qt=neurodermatitis&alt=sh. Accessed Aug. 14, 2012.
- Park KK, et al. Pathologic skin picking. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Aug. 14, 2012.
- Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine.7th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=505. Accessed Aug. 14, 2012.
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