From the FDA Drug Label
Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily children under 2 years of age: ask a doctor for external anal and genital itching, adults: when practical, clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily children under 12 years of age: ask a doctor
The treatment for a cimicosis (bed bug) rash is to apply hydrocortisone to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older.
- For children under 2 years of age, a doctor should be consulted.
- For children under 12 years of age, a doctor should be consulted before applying hydrocortisone. 1
From the Research
To treat a bedbug rash, start with washing the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection, and apply topical pramoxine or oral antihistamines to alleviate pruritus, as recommended by the most recent study 2. The treatment of bedbug rashes is mainly symptomatic, focusing on relieving itching and inflammation.
- Topical corticosteroids can be used for significant eruptions to control inflammation and pruritus, and to hasten resolution of the lesions 2.
- Oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can also help control itching 2.
- For severe itching, calamine lotion or a cold compress applied for 15-20 minutes can provide additional relief.
- Avoid scratching the bites as this can lead to secondary infections.
- If the rash becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, or develops pus, seek medical attention as you may need prescription-strength corticosteroids or antibiotics. While treating the rash, it's essential to eliminate the bedbugs from your environment through thorough cleaning, washing bedding in hot water, and possibly professional extermination to prevent recurring bites 2. It's also important to note that bed bug infestations may cause diverse dermal reactions, stigmatization, poor self-esteem, emotional stress, anxiety, significant adverse effect on quality of life, and substantial socioeconomic burden to society, making rapid detection and eradication of paramount importance 2.