What's the best cream, lotion or spray to stop itching from bug bites? According to a new review by British scientists, it probably doesn't exist.
The review in the U.K. journal Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin found there's "little evidence" the any bug bite remedies work, despite the fact they're used by millions and doctors often prescribe them based on anecdotal evidence.
Insects searching for a blood meal such as midges, mosquitoes, flies and bedbugs are most likely to cause a reaction because they inject their saliva into humans. This could lead to infection, a flare-up of skin conditions such as eczema or in serious cases anaphylactic shock.
But for most people, these bug bites will cause milder reactions like painful swelling, itching and skin problems caused by scratching the bites. The study found little evidence that antihistamine pills, which are widely recommended to relieve itching, actually quell the problem. The same goes for steroid creams or tablets that are recommended to treat the inflammation. The review, however, did show evidence corticosteroids could help people with eczema who react to bug bites.
Creams that contain painkillers or anesthetics -- either alone or in combination with an antihistamine or antiseptic --were "marginally effective" but occasionally made allergic reactions worse. Prescription anti-itch creams like crotamiton didn't cut it either.
Then what does work? Mostly waiting, the researchers said. But, a little placebo effect can't hurt.
--CBS NEWS
