13.3. Topical local anaesthetics and antipruretics

Prescribing Notes

• 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.
• Crotamiton is useful for pruritus persisting after treatment of scabies.
• Emollient preparations may be useful for pruritus due to dry skin; sedating oral antihistamines may also be helpful for itch (see section 3.4.1).
• Topical antihistamines and local anaesthetics are not recommended as they are only marginally effective and can cause sensitisation.