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New OTC Option Offers Patients Itch Relief During Summer Activities
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Key Takeaways
- PBZ OTC cream targets itching from sunburn, insect bites, and plant-related irritations by calming nerve endings and reducing inflammation.
- Pharmacists are essential in advising patients on PBZ OTC's use, potential interactions, and recognizing symptoms that require medical attention.
The seasonal surge in skin irritations underscores the ongoing need for effective and convenient remedies.
As summer approaches, bringing with it increased exposure to sunburn, insect bites, and plant-related skin irritations, a new OTC product, pyribenzamine antihistamine cream (PBZ OTC), has entered the market, promising relief from the often-maddening itch associated with outdoor activities. The topical cream, recently recognized as Product of the Year for 2025, aims to provide consumers with a readily accessible solution for managing common skin discomfort.1,2
Summer brings seasonal skin irritations | Image credit: _KUBE_ | stock.adobe.com
The seasonal surge in skin irritations underscores the ongoing need for effective and convenient remedies. Extended time spent outdoors during the summer months inherently increases the likelihood of encountering itch-inducing agents. Sunburn, resulting from ultraviolet radiation exposure, can lead to significant itching as the damaged skin heals and often peels. Insect bites, a ubiquitous part of the outdoor experience, trigger localized inflammatory responses that manifest as itchy welts. Furthermore, contact with plants such as poison ivy, oak, and sumac remain a persistent concern, causing intensely itchy and sometimes debilitating rashes in susceptible individuals. These conditions detract significantly from the enjoyment of summer activities, often leading to discomfort and potential secondary complications from scratching.
PBZ OTC is a new entrant to the market targeting these issues. The product is a topical cream designed to alleviate itching associated with various skin irritations. Its mechanism of action reportedly focuses on calming irritated nerve endings and mitigating the inflammatory processes that contribute to the sensation of itch. The non-greasy formulation is designed for ease of application and rapid absorption into the skin.1
The availability of PBZ OTC introduces another option for consumers seeking self-treatable solutions for summer-related itching. Previously, individuals relied on a range of existing OTC products or often endured the discomfort until it naturally subsided. PBZ OTC offers a potentially more targeted approach for managing these symptoms directly at the site of irritation. The recent designation as Product of the Year suggests a positive reception and anticipated utility among consumers and potentially health care professionals.1,2
Pharmacists’ Role
Pharmacists can play a key informational role regarding PBZ OTC. As accessible health care providers, they are positioned to counsel patients on its appropriate use and limitations. For instance, pharmacists can help patients consider the potential origin of their irritation, which may influence other management strategies or the need for further medical evaluation.
Clear guidance on how to apply the cream—typically a thin layer on the affected area as needed—is essential for optimal results and to minimize potential adverse effects. Patients should also be advised on hygiene practices post-application. Pharmacists should be aware of any potential interactions with other topical or systemic medications patients may be using, and identify any specific contraindications based on patient history.
It is crucial for pharmacists to advise patients on red flag symptoms that warrant medical attention, such as signs of infection, widespread or severe rashes, or persistent symptoms despite treatment. Beyond treatment, pharmacists can offer valuable advice on preventing common summer skin irritations, reinforcing the importance of sun production, insect repellants, and awareness of environmental hazards such as poisonous plants.
Conclusion
The introduction of PBZ OTC adds a new dimension to the OTC landscape for managing summer-related skin discomfort. Its availability offers consumers another avenue for relief from the often-bothersome itching associated with common seasonal exposures. As the product becomes more widely available, pharmacists will be instrumental in providing the necessary guidance for its safe and effective use.
