Indications
Mepyramine Maleate (also called Pyrilamine) is an antihistamine. As a cream applied to the skin, it is used for quick relief of itching, redness and swelling caused by insect bites and stings (such as mosquitoes, bees, wasps and ants), jellyfish stings and stinging nettle rash. In some countries it has also been used by mouth in cough and cold or allergy combinations.
How It Works
When the skin is bitten or stung, cells release histamine, a chemical that causes itching, redness and swelling. Mepyramine blocks the H1 receptors that histamine acts on, so these symptoms are reduced. It also has a mild numbing effect on the skin.
Dosage and Administration
For the cream: adults and children over 2 years, apply a thin layer to the affected area 2 to 3 times a day for up to 3 days, or as directed on the label. Do not cover with a tight dressing. Wash hands after use. Do not use on large areas of skin or for more than 3 days without medical advice.
Interactions
Do not use other antihistamine creams on the same area. Interactions with the cream are unlikely, but avoid using it at the same time as oral antihistamines unless a doctor advises. Oral Mepyramine adds to drowsiness from alcohol, sleeping pills and other sedatives.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Mepyramine or other antihistamines, or to any cream ingredient.
- Broken, raw, weeping or infected skin, eczema, or sunburn.
- Children under 2 years, unless a doctor advises.
- Eyes, inside the mouth or other mucous membranes.
Side Effects
Side effects are uncommon. The cream may cause local irritation, burning or a rash. Rarely, using antihistamine creams can make the skin sensitive (allergic contact dermatitis) or more sensitive to sunlight.
Get urgent medical help if a sting is followed by swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, dizziness or fainting, as these are signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that a cream cannot treat. Also seek help if a bite becomes very swollen, hot and painful, or you develop fever.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Short-term use of the cream on a small area is unlikely to cause harm in pregnancy or breastfeeding, but ask a doctor or pharmacist first. Do not apply to the breast area before feeding.
Precautions and Warnings
For external use only. Stop using it if the rash or irritation gets worse. Remove a bee sting before applying the cream. Avoid strong sunlight on treated skin. If you are allergic to stings, carry any emergency medicine your doctor has prescribed.
Overdose
Overuse on the skin may cause irritation. If the cream is swallowed, especially by a child, it may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, restlessness or, rarely, seizures: seek medical help promptly.
Therapeutic Class
Antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist) for topical use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Close the tube tightly after use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.