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Home Formulary 13.0 Skin 13.3. Topical local anaesthetics and antipruretics

13.3. Topical local anaesthetics and antipruretics

Prescribing Notes

  • Promote self-care for treatment of minor conditions such as insect bites and stings. Over-the-counter treatments can help to treat symptoms of pain and itching. For further details see NICE CKS Insect bites and stings. If secondary infection develops see primary care antimicrobial guidelines –Cellulitis & Erysipelas’.
  • Pruritus may be caused by systemic disease, skin disease or as a side-effect of medication. Where possible, the underlying cause should be identified and treated
  • For the management of widespread itch – see NICE CKS
  • Topical antihistamines, crotamiton and local anaesthetics are not recommended as they are only marginally effective and can cause sensitization

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