Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
16 April 2012 08:32
Researchers looked at non-prescription treatments for insect bites
If you're planning on packing some over-the-counter remedies for insect bites before jetting off on holiday you may want to think again.
For researchers have claimed there is little evidence to prove such non-prescription remedies have any effect on bites.
Evidence published in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin claims the bite remedies often packed by holidaymakers are unnecessary in many cases.
However, when bites cause an infection or anaphylactic shock then medical treatment is needed, the DTB said.
Treatment in such cases will likely be covered by a decent medical travel insurance policy, reminding travellers of the importance of such precautions.
But in many situations bite reactions are not severe enough to need medicine, the researchers found.
People are often advised to use antihistamine tablets to ease the itching of insect bites, however the scientists said this cannot be proven.
Other products recommended for itching and swelling include steroid creams and pills but there are no facts to back up their use, the DTB said.
The DTB concluded: "There is little evidence for the efficacy of treatments for simple insect bites. The symptoms are often self limiting and in many cases, no treatment may be needed."
The research used products that have not been licensed for use in the UK.
07 June 2019
Get hitched without a hitch! Here are our top tips on how to choose your perfect wedding location abroad, covering everything from food to legalities.
[more...]
03 June 2019
Want to get into surfing but not sure where to go? Here's where you should be heading to get the best beginner waves around the world.
Heading to the showpiece event of women's football in France this summer? Here's everything you need to know about England's venues for France 2019.
Get more out of your smartphone when you go travelling by downloading these travel apps and make your trip easier at the touch of a button.
24 May 2019
Heading to the football in Baku but don't know what else to do? Explore the hip and trendy crossroad of Europe and the Middle East and experience the fast-growing phenomenon, Azerbaijan.
Two of London's top football teams head east in search of silverware on May 29. If you're heading to Baku for the final, here's our guide on what you need to know before you go...
17 May 2019
There's more to Monaco than the Grand Prix. Discover the magic of the Mediterranean principality with our guide to what you must see in Monaco.
15 May 2019
Are you heading to one of Europe's best music festivals this summer? Then make sure you read our top ten tips before you leave...
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.