From the Guidelines
The most effective treatment for poison ivy poisoning is immediate washing with soap and water to remove the urushiol oil, followed by the use of cool compresses and colloidal oatmeal baths for symptom relief, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1.
Treatment Approach
The treatment for poison ivy poisoning focuses on relieving symptoms while the rash heals naturally.
- For mild cases, washing the affected area immediately with soap and water is crucial to remove any remaining urushiol oil, which causes the reaction.
- Apply cool compresses for 15-20 minutes several times daily to reduce inflammation and itching, as suggested by the guidelines 1.
- Colloidal oatmeal baths can also provide relief, and are considered for relief of local symptoms from exposure to poison ivy, oak, or sumac 1.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments may include:
- Calamine lotion applied 2-3 times daily
- Hydrocortisone cream (1%) applied thinly 2-3 times daily for up to 7 days, although its effectiveness is uncertain 1
- Oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50mg every 4-6 hours as needed for itching, although their usefulness is also uncertain 1
Severe Cases
For severe cases with widespread rash, facial or genital involvement, or signs of infection, seek medical attention as oral steroids like prednisone (typically 40-60mg daily, tapered over 2-3 weeks) may be necessary.
Prevention of Infection
Avoid scratching to prevent infection, and remember that the fluid in blisters doesn't spread the rash—only contact with the original plant oil does. The rash typically resolves within 1-3 weeks as your body processes the inflammatory reaction to the urushiol oil, affecting approximately 50% to 75% of individuals who react to urushiol 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema psoriasis poison ivy, oak, sumac insect bites detergents jewelry cosmetics soaps seborrheic dermatitis temporarily relieves external anal and genital itching other uses of this product should only be under the advice and supervision of a doctor
The treatment for poison ivy poisoning includes the use of hydrocortisone to temporarily relieve itching associated with the rash. This is based on the information provided in the drug label for hydrocortisone (TOP) 2.
- Key uses of hydrocortisone (TOP) include relief of itching due to poison ivy. It is essential to follow the advice and supervision of a doctor for other uses of this product.
From the Research
Treatment Options
- The treatment of poison ivy dermatitis depends on the severity of the reaction 3
- Supportive therapy can be prescribed to manage the symptoms, and preventive measures can be taught to the patient 3
- Washing the affected area with soap and cold water is recommended to remove the urushiol oil from the skin 4, 5, 6
- Anti-inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids, can be used to reduce the inflammation and itching 6
Prevention
- Avoiding contact with the poison ivy plant is the best way to prevent the allergic reaction 4, 7
- Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, can help prevent exposure to the urushiol oil 6
- Using barrier creams can also help prevent the oil from coming into contact with the skin 6
- Educating patients on how to identify and avoid poison ivy can help prevent future exposures 7
Management
- Assessing the severity of the dermatitis is important to determine the best course of treatment 3
- Systemic involvement may require consultation with a physician 3
- Different treatments, such as Tecnu, Goop, and Dial, can be used to remove the urushiol oil from the skin, with varying degrees of effectiveness and cost 5