Q I'm currently using a steroid ointment and antihistamines prescribed by a dermatologist. Is it okay to take herbal medicine at the same time?
A Yes, with a time gap between them. Keep using the topical ointment as is, and we advise taking oral antihistamines and herbal medicine about 1-2 hours apart; as the skin stabilizes, we gradually reduce the conventional medication.
Detailed Answer
Topical steroid ointment acts on the skin, so it is fine to use alongside herbal medicine, and oral antihistamines interfere little with absorption if taken about 1-2 hours apart from herbal medicine. There is no need to suddenly stop medications you are taking during a period of severe itching; as inflammation and itching stabilize with treatment, we adjust to taper them step by step.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
If you tell us at your visit what you are applying or taking, we will adjust the herbal formulation and dosing times accordingly. At Dongjedang, our principle is to manage safe concurrent use and gradual reduction together, rather than forcing you to stop conventional medication abruptly.
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