Over-the-counter drugs for rashes

A rash may reflect irritation, allergy, infection, heat, sun exposure or a reaction to a prescribed or non-prescription medicine. [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) is a symptom, not one diagnosis. A drug rash can appear after a new medicine or after a dose change, and [Sun Sensitivity](/symptoms/sun-sensitivity/) can make exposed skin react more strongly. The appearance, timing, body areas and accompanying symptoms guide treatment.

List every recent medicine, supplement and topical product, including when each was started. Do not stop an essential prescribed medicine without speaking with the prescriber, but contact them promptly about a new rash. A pharmacist can check whether an antihistamine is suitable and whether another product duplicates its ingredient. [Antihistamine Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antihistamine-therapy/) may help some itch. A clinician may recommend [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) for selected inflammatory rashes; do not use steroid creams on a suspected infection or thin-skin area without guidance. Use a bland moisturiser and avoid new fragrances while the cause is being clarified.

Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, faintness, swelling of the lips or tongue, or a rapidly spreading rash. Urgent assessment is also needed for blisters, peeling skin, painful sores, mouth or eye involvement, fever, or feeling very unwell after a medicine. Arrange a prompt review for a rash that continues to spread, returns with each dose, or does not improve after the suspected trigger is addressed.

Could this be a drug rash, infection or another condition? Should I continue the medicine, change it or record it as a suspected reaction? Which symptom treatment is safe with my current medicines?