Anti-Pruritic Efficacy of Itch Relief Lotion and Cream in Patients With Atopic History: Comparison With Hydrocortisone Cream.

Matthew J Zirwas, Sylvia Barkovic

---

• What is this paper about?

  This paper studies how well two anti-itch products (a lotion and cream containing ceramides and pramoxine) work for people with atopic dermatitis. The study compares these products to hydrocortisone cream and looks at how quickly they relieve itch and how long the relief lasts.

• How did the authors study this?

  The researchers conducted two double-blind studies. In the first study, they applied different products to opposite sides of patients' bodies and compared the results. In the second study, they compared their cream to hydrocortisone cream in one part, and then had patients use the cream for 6 days in another part. They measured itch relief at various times (2 minutes, 5 minutes, 1-2 hours, 4 hours, and 8 hours after applying).

• What populations did the authors study?

  The studies included 66 people aged 11 years and older who had a history of atopic dermatitis, including some with active flare-ups. All participants had moderate itch severity at the start of the study.

• What did the authors find?

  Both the lotion and cream provided quick itch relief within 2 minutes and lasted for 8 hours. Itch severity decreased from moderate to mild over 8 hours. The cream worked about as well as hydrocortisone 1% cream. When used for 6 days, the cream provided all-night relief for most patients (87.5%), and most patients felt their skin looked and felt healthier.

• What conclusions can we draw?

  The authors conclude that both the ceramide-containing lotion and cream with 1% pramoxine provide fast and long-lasting itch relief for people with atopic dermatitis. The cream works as well as hydrocortisone 1% cream for itch relief. The products were well-tolerated and continued to work effectively over 6 days of use.