Corticosteroid creams and ointments reduce inflammation and are safe when used appropriately. However, some patients worry about their potential side effects, leading to underuse or stopping use prematurely. Topical corticosteroids are classed by their potency €“ mild, moderate, potent and very potent.

Only the mildest products are available OTC such as hydrocortisone in strengths up to 1% (e.g. HC45 and Lanacort), clobetasone butyrate 0.05% (e.g. Eumovate), as well as products that combine a corticosteroid with an anti-itch ingredient (e.g. Eurax Hc). OTC topical corticosteroids should only be used once or twice a day for a maximum of seven days and are not suitable for children under 10 or pregnant women.

They should not be applied to the face, or to broken or infected skin. Discuss with the pharmacist how to respond to requests for these products.

Oral antihistamines

Antihistamine tablets may be useful in some sufferers, particularly children whose itching disrupts sleep. Older style antihistamines, such as chlorphenamine (e.g. Allercalm and Piriton) cause drowsiness as a side effect.