Anthisan Bite and Sting 2% w/w Cream 20g

Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream is an antihistamine cream containing mepyramine maleate 2% w/w that relieves the pain, itching and inflammation caused by insect bites, stings and nettle rash, supplied in a 20g tube by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and children over 2 who have insect bites or stings that are painful, itchy or inflamed
• People with nettle rash who want to ease itching and irritation
• People who want to treat a bite or sting early, as soon as possible after it happens

Not suitable for: children under 2, anyone allergic to mepyramine maleate or any ingredient, and do not apply to eczema, sunburnt skin, cut, grazed or badly broken skin, or large areas of skin. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The cream may cause drowsiness; if affected, do not drive or use machines.

How to use

1. Apply the cream directly to the affected area of skin, ideally as soon as possible after the bite or sting.
2. Use two or three times a day for up to three days.
3. Do not apply to eczema, sunburnt skin, broken skin or large areas of skin.
4. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed application.
5. If symptoms worsen or do not improve after 3 days, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently asked questions

What is Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream used for?

It relieves the pain, itching and inflammation caused by insect bites, stings and nettle rash. The active ingredient, mepyramine maleate, is an antihistamine that blocks histamine released during the body's reaction to a bite or sting.

How often can I use Anthisan cream?

Apply it two or three times a day for up to three days. Repeated use for longer than a few days is not recommended; if symptoms have not improved after 3 days, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can children use Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream?

It can be used by adults, the elderly and children over 2 years of age. It should not be used on children under 2.

Where should I not apply Anthisan cream?

Do not apply it to eczema, sunburnt skin, cut, grazed or badly broken skin, or to large areas of skin. If any of these apply, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before use.

Can Anthisan cream make you drowsy?

You may feel drowsy or sleepy while using this medicine. If this happens, do not drive or use any tools or machines until the effect has passed.

Safety and storage

• For external use only. Do not use if allergic to mepyramine maleate or any ingredient.
• Stop using and seek medical help straight away if you get signs of a severe allergic reaction such as a rash, swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue, or breathing or swallowing problems.
• Tell your pharmacist if you also take oral antihistamines or other medicines.
• Store below 30 degrees C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.

References

• NHS — Insect bites and stings
• Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream PIL via emc
• Suspected side effect? Report via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme

This is a medicine for external use on the skin. Always read the label and the enclosed leaflet before use. If symptoms persist or worsen after 3 days, consult your pharmacist or GP.