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Can Calamine lotion alternate steroids in a poison ivy rash?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a medical student. I have severe poison ivy contact dermatitis. The rash started on my left arm and has spread over the last week. I have small papules that are all over my body but not on my face or genitals. Through the investigation I have done, I have been able to gather that I would most likely benefit from a course of oral steroids. I have read that this needs to be a tapering course for two to three weeks to prevent a rebound immune reaction. My concern is steroids have a negative impact on memory, focus, mood, and overall ability. Can I use Calamine lotion to treat these rashes?
Answered by Dr. Shanza Ikram

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist with 16 years of clinical expertise. She successfully completed her MBBS degree at King Edward Medical College, acquiring a solid foundation in medical education. Dr. Shanza Ikram's specialization lies in the diagnosis and treatment of various dermatological conditions that affect the hair, skin, nails, as well as conditions that impact mucous membranes, such as those lining the nose, mouth, and eyelids. Her extensive knowledge and skills enable her to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of dermatological issues. Dr. Shanza Ikram is currently practicing in Lahore, Pakistan, where she diligently serves her patients with professionalism and dedication.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If the reaction is in the spreading phase, you need a course of steroids orally. But taking a short course of steroids for only six days does not require tapering. Also, there will not be any rebound effect. I suggest you apply Betamethasone twice daily for 14 days. In addition, take the tablet Cetirizine 10 mg. Consult a specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At December 31, 2022
Reviewed At June 10, 2024

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist with 16 years of clinical expertise. She successfully completed her MBBS degree at King Edward Medical College, acquiring a solid foundation in medical education. Dr. Shanza Ikram's specialization lies in the diagnosis and treatment of various dermatological conditions that affect the hair, skin, nails, as well as conditions that impact mucous membranes, such as those lining the nose, mouth, and eyelids. Her extensive knowledge and skills enable her to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of dermatological issues. Dr. Shanza Ikram is currently practicing in Lahore, Pakistan, where she diligently serves her patients with professionalism and dedication.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shanza Ikram
Dr. Shanza Ikram

Dermatology

Consult this doctor

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist with 16 years of clinical expertise. She successfully completed her MBBS degree at King Edward Medical College, acquiring a solid foundation in medical education. Dr. Shanza Ikram's specialization lies in the diagnosis and treatment of various dermatological conditions that affect the hair, skin, nails, as well as conditions that impact mucous membranes, such as those lining the nose, mouth, and eyelids. Her extensive knowledge and skills enable her to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of dermatological issues. Dr. Shanza Ikram is currently practicing in Lahore, Pakistan, where she diligently serves her patients with professionalism and dedication.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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