Zostrix eliminates itching from chigger bites

Q. I have a suggestion for the itching from chiggers. I had 38 bites and was miserable! In desperation, I tried Zostrix, figuring burning would be better than itching. This was a complete success. One application got rid of all the itching, and it did not return.

A. Zostrix is a topical cream that contains capsaicin (the hot stuff in hot chili peppers). It is frequently used for arthritis pain or to ease neuropathy (nerve pain). Thanks for sharing this unique approach for itchy chigger bites. For people who find the burning sensation from Zostrix too overwhelming, hydrogen peroxide from the drugstore might be an alternative.

Q. Ever since I retired a few years ago, I have been suffering from low-level depression. I work hard to keep it hidden from friends and family, but it’s getting worse.

There are so many things I want to do, but every morning I have to force myself to get out of bed and then force myself not to lie back down. Some friends who take antidepressants say they help. I tried Wellbutrin for a while, but I don’t think it made a lot of difference. My physician said I would know if it was helping. Would you suggest something I might ask my physician to try?

A. Depression is a serious condition; it also can increase your risk of suffering heart disease, weight gain or dementia. Rather than trying to hide it, please ask your doctor for an effective strategy to combat depression.

Many people tell us that some generic forms of bupropion (Wellbutrin) are ineffective. A different generic formulation might help. No single antidepressant works for everyone. If Wellbutrin did not help, you might have to try others to discover one that works for you.

We are sending you our Guide to Dealing With Depression, in which we discuss the pros and cons of a variety of antidepressant medications and a number of nondrug approaches that can be helpful. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (61 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. E-7, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded for $2 from our Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.com.

Q. Where can I get a complete evaluation of the medicines I am taking? There are several with similar side effects, one being nausea. The drugstore doesn’t have the time.

A. Many pharmacists are extremely busy these days, but talking to customers about potential side effects or interactions is part of their professional responsibility. Why not ask if you can make an appointment to speak with the pharmacist? That way there will be adequate time set aside for your questions.

Q. My dermatologist prescribed both a gel and a cream for seborrheic dermatitis, but neither worked. Then I happened to clean my face with Noxzema, although I had not used it for 50 years.

The seborrheic dermatitis has gone away. I had already stopped using the prescription medication, so Noxzema gets the credit.

A. Noxzema is a nonsoap facial cleanser. Many readers have found it helpful against eczema. Perhaps others with seborrheic dermatitis (a skin condition characterized by flakes, itch and redness, like dandruff on the face) also may find it helpful.

XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Favorite Home Remedies From The People’s Pharmacy.”

2009 King Features Syndicate Inc.