Piriton is a branded antihistamine that’s usually used for allergies, but it can also relieve the itchiness associated with skin conditions like lichen planus.
Answer a few questions about your health, and our experts can recommend treatments tailored for you. Order lichen planus treatment online and get it the next working day.
Piriton is an antihistamine that treats symptoms like itching and skin rashes. It’s a popular medication that normally treats hay fever and allergies, but because it helps with symptoms like itchiness, it can also be used for uncomfortable skin conditions like lichen planus.
Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that’s characterised by purple bumps on your wrists, lower back and ankles. Although it usually goes away without treatment, it can take 1-2 years. There’s no cure for lichen planus, but treatment can speed up the healing process and relieve your symptoms. Treatment is typically a topical steroid or antihistamines for itchiness, although if your condition is mild you might not need to use any treatment.
When your skin feels itchy it’s often because of a chemical called histamine, which your body releases in response to a perceived threat, causing inflammation (an immune response). However, when you itch, you can damage your skin barrier, which can lead to more infections.
Piriton’s active ingredient (chlorphenamine maleate) is an antihistamine that blocks this release of histamine by binding to the receptor site. This helps to improve your skin’s itchiness and inflammation and speed up your recovery.
Piriton tablets are only available in 4mg doses. The tablet can be divided into equal halves to get a 2mg dose for children under the age of 12.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
To take Piriton, simply swallow one tablet whole with a glass of water.
Dosage for adults:
Take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours or as needed. Don’t take more than 6 tablets (24mg) in 24 hours.
Dosage for children aged 6-12:
Give half a tablet every 4-6 hours or as needed. Don’t give more than 6 half tablets (12mg) in 24 hours.
Dosage for the elderly:
The dose should be lower as side effects are more likely for the elderly. The maximum dosage is 3 tablets (12mg) in 24 hours. For more information, check the patient leaflet or contact our clinicians online.
Don't give Piriton to children under the age of 6.
Don’t take Piriton for more than 14 days unless advised by your clinician.
Piriton takes around 30 minutes to work and has the most effect between hours 1 and 2. The effects will continue to last 4-6 hours, so it’s important not to take another tablet within this time.
If you accidentally take more than you should’ve, contact the local casualty immediately. Taking too much can cause drowsiness, so don't drive there yourself.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip it. Don’t take two doses to make up for a missed one. There should be a minimum of 4 hours between doses.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
Lichen Planus. [Updated 2022 Oct 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-.
Pharmacotherapy of Itch—Antihistamines and Histamine Receptors as G Protein-Coupled Receptors. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(12).
Pharmacology of Antihistamines. World Allergy Organization Journal, [online] 4(3), pp.S22–S27.
Piriton Tablets - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)
Registered with GMC (No. 4624794)
Meet Daniel
Registered with GPhC (No. 2202465)
Meet Sanjeda
Registered with GPhC (No. 2070724)
Meet CraigWe know health, but you know you.
Our experts tell you what’s safe, but you decide what’s best.
Answer a few questions and tell us about yourself. Get tailored advice from our clinicians so you can choose better.
Choose your treatment and how often you have it delivered.
We know things change. It’s the nature of life. We’ll check in regularly to make sure your treatment is still right for you.
Pause. Change. Skip. Start again. Any time you like.
Treated is fab wouldnt go anywhere else for medical issues
Simple. Easy. Professional
On time
Good
Pleased with the service, very straightforward to order and delivery was very fast.
Everything was quick and professional
We're making healthcare more about you. Sign up to our newsletter for personalised health articles that make a difference.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
If there’s a particular treatment or condition you’re looking for, tell us and we’ll look into it for you.
Submit your question here, or tell us if you’ve found an issue on our site.
We’ll get back to you very soon. We aim to respond to all queries in one working day.
You’re signed up to our newsletter. Keep an eye on your inbox for our latest update.
By clicking 'Subscribe now' you're agreeing to our Privacy Policy.
