In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to treat poison ivy rash. These medications may provide rapid and steady relief from symptoms.

Poison ivy rash can range in severity from mild to severe. Mild and moderate cases often resolve with minimal issues on their own. Home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can typically reduce itchiness and uncomfortable symptoms.

Severe cases may last longer and cause more severe symptoms. Prescription medications can help alleviate symptoms more quickly.

Keep reading for more information on prescription medication for treating poison ivy rash and other treatment options.

When treating poison ivy rash in an emergency room setting, healthcare professionals typically prescribe oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone. These medications help reduce the swelling associated with a rash.

According to the findings of a 2022 claims-based analysis studyTrusted Source, emergency departments typically prescribe corticosteroids for a duration shorter than 2 weeks. This often results in a person seeking help again for poison ivy.

The study recommends emergency departments treat poison ivy rashes for a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks to help reduce the need for a return visit.

Healthcare professionals may treat severe poison ivy rashes with prescription medication. Mild to moderate rashes often only require OTC medications or home remedies to help reduce symptoms.

A person should contact a healthcare professional if they have severe symptoms or experience a poison ivy rash alongsideTrusted Source:

  • pus or soft yellow scabs
  • tenderness at the site of the rash
  • worsening itch or itching that makes sleeping difficult
  • fever over 100ºF (37.78ºC)
  • rash that spreads to the mouth, eyes, or genitals
  • rash that covers more than 25% of the body
  • difficulty breathing
  • rash that does not improve within 7 to 10 days with OTC treatments or home remedies

A person should start to find their rash reducing quickly and steadily after starting oral corticosteroids.

Even once the rash and symptoms, such as itchiness or pain, start to fade, a person should continue to take corticosteroids as their doctor has prescribed. If they stop taking the medication too soon, they may develop a rebound rash.

A treatment course of about 2 to 3 weeks should help effectively treat a poison ivy rash.

Most treatment options for poison ivy symptoms can be found OTC.

Treatments involve both topical applications and oral medications.

In mild to moderate cases, a person may find relief from itchy skin through:

  • applying calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream
  • taking a lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal preparation or baking soda
  • taking short showers in cool water
  • using a cool compress on the rash

A person may also consider taking an oral antihistamine. This medication can help calm the immune system response to the poison ivy oil and reduce some of the swelling and itchiness.

If a rash does not improve in 7 to 10 days or if the rash appears infected, they should contact a doctor for an evaluation.

What clears up poison ivy symptoms the fastest?

The use of oral corticosteroids is one of the fastest ways to clear a severe poison ivy rash. The treatment typically requires a person to take the medication for around 2 to 3 weeksTrusted Source.

How quickly does prednisone work for poison ivy?

Prednisone and other oral corticosteroids should help rapidly reduce the severity of a poison ivy rash and itchiness.

What should a person not do if they have a poison ivy rash?

It is important for a person to avoid itching if they have a poison ivy rash. Itching can cause breaks in the skin and lead to infection. They should also not burst any blisters that develop.

Although a person can take an oral antihistamine, they should avoid using a topical antihistamine as it can worsen the rash and itch.

Should a person cover a poison ivy rash when sleeping?

It is usually best to avoid covering a poison ivy rash while sleeping unless it is weeping or blistering. However, a doctor can advise on the best approach if the rash is affecting a person’s sleep.

Is it OK to shower with a poison ivy rash?

Yes, a person can shower with a poison ivy rash. They may want to use lukewarm or cool water to avoid irritating the rash.

How long does it take poison ivy to run its course?

A mild poison ivy rash should clear within 7 to 10 days. More severe rashes may take longer. A doctor may recommend oral corticosteroids to help accelerate the healing process of a more severe rash.

Prescription medication can help clear up severe poison ivy rashes quickly. A person will usually need to take the medication for about 2 to 3 weeks.

Less severe rashes typically clear without prescription medication within about 7 to 10 days. A person may find relief from itching and other symptoms using calamine lotion, soothing baths, and oral antihistamines.

A person should contact a doctor if they experience a severe or widespread rash or if other symptoms develop, such as a fever or infection.