Use an insect repellent or bug spray containing DEET, at a concentration of 10% to 35%, Mentel says.Avoid areas with standing water, which attract mosquitoes, especially during dusk and night time, when mosquitoes are most active.Here are a few steps you can take to prevent mosquito bites altogether: Note: If you know you are going to be in an area with a large mosquito population, it may be helpful to take an antihistamine in the days leading up to exposure.ĭuring the late spring and summer months, when mosquitoes are most prevalent in the US, it's important to know how to avoid bites. Other common over-the-counter oral antihistamines that you can try include: After participants got bit, it was found that the antihistamine reduced the bite size and itching when measured 15 minutes after the bite and 24 hours after the bite. "Oral antihistamines can relieve itching and are readily available over the counter," Kaufmann says.Ī small 2006 study had some participants take the antihistamine levocetirizine (brand name Xyzal) for several days before exposing them to mosquitoes. However, oral antihistamines are proven to help with the itching and inflammation related to mosquito bites. If you have an itchy bug bite, topical cream might work better to alleviate itch and it will help you avoid side effects like drowsiness, which are common with oral antihistamines. You should talk with your doctor before using an antihistamine cream, as in some cases, it may have adverse side effects. Antihistamines can be applied topically with a cream, or taken as an oral tablet.Īntihistamine creams, which are available over-the-counter or as a prescription, counteract your body's release of histamines to reduce the itch.
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