Remedies for Poison Ivy & Oak

Poison ivy and poison oak are two plants that often cause allergic reactions in people who come in contact with them. This reaction produces an itchy red rash that usually requires some form of treatment to keep patients comfortable.

Over-the-Counter Medications

• Corticosteroid creams like hydocortisone, available without a prescription, are effective in treating poison ivy and oak. Calamine lotion and creams that contain menthol also help to alleviate the rashes.

Over-the-counter Antihistamines

• Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, help to relieve the itching associated with poison ivy and poison oak.

Soaking

• Another popular treatment for poison ivy or oak rash is a cool bath filled with a colloidal oatmeal powder.

Compresses

• People suffering from poison ivy or oak also benefit from using a cool wet compress on the affected areas for 15- to 30-minute periods several times per day.

Injections

• In some severe cases of poison ivy or oak, physicians may administer an injection of corticosteroids to speed up the healing process.

Prescription Drugs

• As an alternative to a steroid injection, physicians sometimes prescribe an oral or cream form of corticosteroid, such as prednisone.