Treatment Overview

Experiencing contact dermatitis can be a deeply frustrating and physically uncomfortable ordeal. Whether caused by a new detergent, a piece of jewelry, or a brush with poison ivy, the sudden onset of red, itchy, and blistering skin can disrupt sleep and make daily tasks difficult. The intense urge to scratch often creates a cycle of irritation that prevents healing and increases the risk of infection. Treatment is essential not only to soothe the immediate burning and itching but also to restore the skin’s protective barrier and prevent the reaction from becoming a chronic issue. 

Because contact dermatitis is a reaction to an external trigger, the most effective “treatment” is identifying and removing the culprit. However, symptoms often persist long after the irritant is gone. Treatment plans vary depending on whether the reaction is allergic or irritant-based, the location of the rash, and the severity of the symptoms (American Academy of Dermatology, 2023). 

Overview of treatment options for Contact Dermatitis 

The primary goals of treating contact dermatitis are to identify the trigger, soothe the skin, and suppress the inflammatory response. While avoidance of the allergen or irritant is the foundation of long-term management, medical intervention is almost always necessary to calm the active rash. 

For mild cases, over-the-counter topical treatments and cool compresses may suffice. However, moderate to severe reactions especially those involving the face, hands, or large body surface areas, typically require prescription-strength medication. The approach usually follows a stepped care model, starting with topical agents and escalating to systemic medications if the rash is widespread or fails to respond to creams. 

Medications used for Contact Dermatitis 

Doctors prescribe various medications to reduce inflammation, control itching, and fight potential infections. 

Topical corticosteroids, like hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, or clobetasol, are the primary, anti-inflammatory treatment for most contact dermatitis, applied directly to the rash. Clinical experience suggests that applying these agents once or twice daily can significantly reduce redness and swelling within a few days. The strength prescribed depends on the location; lower potency is used for the face, while higher potency is needed for the hands or feet. 

Severe or widespread reactions (e.g., severe poison ivy, rash covering >20% of the body) often require systemic corticosteroids like oral prednisone. These medications rapidly stop the immune reaction from within. They are typically prescribed for a short, tapering course (often 2-3 weeks) to prevent rash recurrence. 

Antihistamines are often advised for managing itch, the most bothersome symptom. Sedating oral options (e.g., diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine) are best for night, aiding sleep by reducing the urge to scratch. Non-drowsy options (e.g., cetirizine) can be used during the day. 

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, are non-steroid options sometimes used for sensitive areas like the eyelids or face, where strong steroids might cause side effects. 

Antibiotics may be prescribed if the skin has been broken from scratching and develops a secondary bacterial infection. 

How these medications work 

The medications used for contact dermatitis target the immune system’s overreaction. 

Corticosteroids mimic natural anti-inflammatory hormones. They enter skin cells to block inflammatory chemicals, which constricts blood vessels to reduce redness and signals immune cells to halt the attack, thus reducing swelling. 

Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors. Since histamine, released by the immune system, causes itching and swelling, blocking its receptors prevents the sensation of itch. 

Calcineurin inhibitors suppress T-cells, a specific part of the immune system. By preventing these cells from activating, the medication stops the release of substances that cause inflammation and itchiness. 

Side effects and safety considerations 

While generally safe when used as directed, these medications carry risks that require attention. 

Topical corticosteroids can cause skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks, or discoloration with prolonged use or on sensitive areas. Follow doctor’s duration instructions carefully. 

Systemic corticosteroids can cause short-term side effects like insomnia, increased appetite, mood swings, and elevated blood sugar. Long-term use is discouraged due to risks like bone density loss and hormonal suppression. 

Older antihistamines often cause significant drowsiness, making driving or operating machinery unsafe. 

Patients must seek immediate medical care for signs of severe infection (pus, increasing warmth, fever) or if the rash involves the eyes or genitals. Since everyone’s experience with the condition and its treatments can vary, working closely with a qualified healthcare provider helps ensure safe and effective care. 

References 

  1. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org 
  1. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org 
  1. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov 
  1. National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org 

Medications for Contact Dermatitis

These are drugs that have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning they have been determined to be safe and effective for use in Contact Dermatitis.

Found 8 Approved Drugs for Contact Dermatitis

MethylPREDNISolone

Brand Names
Solu-Medrol MethylPREDNISolone, Solu-Medrol, Medrol

MethylPREDNISolone

Brand Names
Solu-Medrol MethylPREDNISolone, Solu-Medrol, Medrol
Form: Injection, Tablet
Method of administration: Oral, Intravenous, Intramuscular
FDA approval date: October 24, 1957
Classification: Corticosteroid
When oral therapy is not feasible, and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, the intravenous or intramuscular use of Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate for Injection, USP, is indicated as follows: Allergic states Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. Dermatologic diseases Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Endocrine disorders Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Gastrointestinal diseases To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in regional enteritis (systemic therapy) and ulcerative colitis. Hematologic disorders Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia (Diamond-Blackfan anemia), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (intravenous administration only; intramuscular administration is contraindicated), pure red cell aplasia, selected cases of secondary thrombocytopenia. Miscellaneous Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Neoplastic diseases For the palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas. Nervous System Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis; cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor, or craniotomy. Ophthalmic diseases Sympathetic ophthalmia, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. Renal diseases To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome or that due to lupus erythematosus. Respiratory diseases Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis. Rheumatic disorders As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy). For the treatment of dermatomyositis, temporal arteritis, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Kenalog

Brand Names
Lidolog, Mlk F3, Mlk F1, Pro-C-Dure 6, Bupivilog

Kenalog

Brand Names
Lidolog, Mlk F3, Mlk F1, Pro-C-Dure 6, Bupivilog
Form: Kit
Method of administration: Intra-articular, Epidural, Topical, Intramuscular, Infiltration
FDA approval date: January 16, 2014
Intramuscular Where oral therapy is not feasible, injectable corticosteroid therapy, including triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension is indicated for intramuscular use as follows: Allergic states: Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. Dermatologic diseases: Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Endocrine disorders: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Gastrointestinal diseases: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in regional enteritis and ulcerative colitis. Hematologic disorders: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, pure red cell aplasia, selected cases of secondary thrombocytopenia. Miscellaneous: Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Neoplastic diseases: For the palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas. Nervous system: Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis; cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor or craniotomy. Ophthalmic diseases: Sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal arteritis, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. Renal diseases: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome or that due to lupus erythematosus. Respiratory diseases: Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis. Rheumatic disorders: As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy). For the treatment of dermatomyositis, polymyositis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Intra-Articular The intra-articular or soft tissue administration of triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension is indicated as adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, epicondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis.

MethylPREDNISolone Acetate

Brand Names
Medroloan, Medroloan SUIK, Depo-Medrol, Dyural

MethylPREDNISolone Acetate

Brand Names
Medroloan, Medroloan SUIK, Depo-Medrol, Dyural
Form: Injection, Kit
Method of administration: Intra-articular, Intramuscular, Intrasynovial, Intralesional, Soft Tissue, Infiltration, Topical, Intrameningeal, Intra-arterial
FDA approval date: May 28, 1959
Classification: Corticosteroid
A. FOR INTRAMUSCULAR ADMINISTRATION When oral therapy is not feasible and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, the intramuscular use of Methylprednisolone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated as follows: A llergic States : Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. De rmatologic Diseases : Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). E ndocrine Disorders : Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. G astrointestinal Diseases : To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in regional enteritis (systemic therapy) and ulcerative colitis. Hem atologic Disorders : Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia (Diamond Blackfan anemia), pure red cell aplasia, select cases of secondary thrombocytopenia. M iscellaneous : Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Neoplastic Diseases : For palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas. Nervous System : Cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor or craniotomy. O phthalmic Diseases : Sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal arteritis, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. Re nal Diseases : To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, or that due to lupus erythematosus. Re spiratory Diseases : Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis. R heumatic Disorders : As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy). For the treatment of dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. B. FOR INTRA-ARTICULAR OR SOFT TISSUE ADMINISTRATION (See WARNINGS) Methylprednisolone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated as adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, epicondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis. C. FOR INTRALESIONAL ADMINISTRATION Methylprednisolone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated for intralesional use in alopecia areata, discoid lupus erythematosus, keloids, localized hypertrophic, infiltrated, inflammatory lesions of granuloma annulare, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis), and psoriatic plaques, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum. Methylprednisolone Acetate Injectable Suspension also may be useful in cystic tumors of an aponeurosis or tendon (ganglia).

Betamethasone Acetate

Brand Names
Betaloan SUIK, Celestone Soluspan, BL-C, Betalido

Betamethasone Acetate

Brand Names
Betaloan SUIK, Celestone Soluspan, BL-C, Betalido
Form: Injection, Kit
Method of administration: Intra-articular, Perineural, Infiltration, Topical, Intramuscular, Intralesional, Soft Tissue, Intravascular
FDA approval date: April 28, 2010
Classification: Corticosteroid
For use as an first aid antiseptic pre-operative skin preperation. When oral therapy is not feasible, the intramuscular use of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated as follows: Allergic States Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. Dermatologic Diseases Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Endocrine Disorders Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice in primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance. Gastrointestinal Diseases To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in regional enteritis and ulcerative colitis. Hematologic Disorders Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, pure red cell aplasia, selected cases of secondary thrombocytopenia. Miscellaneous Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Neoplastic Diseases For palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas. Nervous System Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis; cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor or craniotomy. Ophthalmic Diseases Sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal arteritis, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. Renal Diseases To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome or that due to lupus erythematosus. Respiratory Diseases Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis. Rheumatic Disorders As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy). For the treatment of dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The intra-articular or soft tissue administration of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated as adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, epicondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis. The intralesional administration of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is indicated for alopecia areata; discoid lupus erythematosus; keloids; localized hypertrophic, infiltrated, inflammatory lesions of granuloma annulare, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis), and psoriatic plaques; necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum. Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension may also be useful in cystic tumors of an aponeurosis or tendon (ganglia). Iodixanol injection is indicated in for: Iodixanol injection is a radiographic contrast agent indicated for the following: Intra-arterial Procedures. Lidocaine hydrochloride injection is indicated for production of local or regional anesthesia by infiltration techniques such as percutaneous injection and intravenous regional anesthesia by peripheral nerve block techniques such as brachial plexus and intercostal and by central neural techniques such as lumbar and caudal epidural blocks, when the accepted procedures for these techniques as described in standard textbooks are observed. For first aid to decrease germs in minor cuts scrapes burns For preparation of the skin prior to injection.

Solu-Cortef

Generic Name
Solu-Cortef

Solu-Cortef

Generic Name
Solu-Cortef
Form: Injection
Method of administration: Intravenous, Intramuscular
FDA approval date: April 27, 1955
Classification: Corticosteroid
When oral therapy is not feasible, and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, the intravenous or intramuscular use of hydrocortisone sodium succinate for injection is indicated as follows: Allergic states: Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. Dermatologic diseases: Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Endocrine disorders: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Gastrointestinal diseases: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in regional enteritis (systemic therapy) and ulcerative colitis. Hematologic disorders: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia (Diamond Blackfan anemia), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (intravenous administration only; intramuscular administration is contraindicated), pure red cell aplasia, select cases of secondary thrombocytopenia. Miscellaneous: Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Neoplastic diseases: For the palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas. Nervous System: Cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor, or craniotomy. Ophthalmic diseases: Sympathetic ophthalmia, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. Renal diseases: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, or that due to lupus erythematosus. Respiratory diseases: Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis. Rheumatic disorders: As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute gouty arthritis; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy). For the treatment of dermatomyositis, temporal arteritis, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
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