What can I do for the itching that accompanies my dermatomyositis skin disease?
Brief answer: There are several types of medicines that can help. Local measures include the liberal use of bland skin moisturizing creams and ointments such as original Eucerine (there is a saying in dermatology, “dry skin is itchy skin”). Also certain anti-itch medications such as products that contain pramoxine can be effective when applied directly to the skin. Topical corticosteroid creams and ointments can also help with itcihing. Pill form internal medications can also combat itching. Examples include antihistamines such as (hydroxyzine [Atarax, Vistaril], cetirizine [Zyrtec], loratidine (Claratin), and fexofenadine [Allegra]). Tricyclic antidepressants such as doxepin used in low doses can also be helpful, especially when given at bedtime. More complete answer: The itching that characteristically accompanies dermatomyositis skin problems can at times be maddening. Special measures are often required for this problem in patients having dermatomyositis. Skin dryness is often a pr
