Nodular prurigo

[joollee]

I have nodular prurigo and I’m taking 20mg methotrexate. It’s working a bit but not entirely and I’m still itching. Can you suggest an emollient or something to help with the itching and something to wash with and put in the bath. I used to be prescribed oilatum but this is no longer prescribed. Thank you.

[Dr Sharon Wong]

Hello. Balneum itch relief cream and balneum plus bath oil can be helpful for itchy dry skin. Other urea containing moisturisers such as Eucerin and Calmurid can also help. I would also suggest taking an antihistamine regularly.

[Dr Giles Dunnill]

This is a difficult condition to treat. You are on strong treatment in the form of methotrexate which has the potential to gradually settle the condition and you will be under a dermatology service for this to monitor the drug. I would encourage you to stick with it as there is a good chance of improvement in time. Topical agents which can be helpful are Eurax cream, 1% menthol in aqueous cream or eucerin cream. All of these can be bought over the counter or can be prescribed by your GP if you find they help