Tiny Mosquito
Mylanta to Treat Mosquito Bites
Who knew that Mylanta, the antacid recommended for all sorts of tummy problems including gas and indigestion, could help soothe a mosquito bite as well? Apparently, it works; but no one seems to know how or why. Though the reasons behind its effectiveness in relieving discomfort from insect bites are a bit of a mystery, there have been many personal accounts and testimonies regarding its power to alleviate the itch.
Ask your Doctor
The active ingredient in Mylanta is simethicone, a very safe drug that
has no known side effects or drug interactions. Even so, it is still a
good idea to contact your doctor or pharmacist before using the remedy
on your skin, especially if you are taking any other type(s) of medication.
It is still undetermined whether simethicone can affect an unborn baby
or mother’s breast milk, so prior to using Mylanta, best to contact
your health care provider if you are pregnant or nursing.
Application
Although the drug is typically ingested to help alleviate various types
of stomach upsets, it can also be applied topically (on the skin) to treat
insect bites. The best form of Mylanta to treat a mosquito bite is the
liquid variety, as it is far easier to apply and faster in reducing the
itch than the tablet form. However, if all you have on hand is a tablet,
you can crush it, mix it with a bit of water or milk, and apply the mixture
directly on the skin.
When using liquid simethicone as a mosquito bite remedy, you should first wash your hands thoroughly. Pour a small amount of the liquid solution onto a cotton ball, or dip a clean Q-Tip into the bottle, and apply on the area of the mosquito bite, taking care to rub it gently into the skin. Let it dry completely. If the initial application does not bring you relief, or if the bite begins to bother you again later, re-apply as often as necessary.
Allergic Reactions
Mylanta is one of the safest mosquito remedies on the market. An allergic
reaction to simethicone is rare, but if your skin becomes red, irritated,
or itchier, discontinue use and opt for another effective mosquito bite
remedy. Severe allergic reactions are even rarer, but if you begin to
have difficulty breathing, experience shortness of breath or swelling
of the lips or tongue, get medical help immediately as these are symptoms
of a dangerous and potentially fatal allergic reaction. Overdose is also
very rare but possible.
If you have heartburn or stomach problems frequently, you may already have Mylanta in your medicine cabinet. If not, you can purchase it from any local drug store, grocery store, or super center for a nominal price. Generic brands typically contain the same active ingredient and are therefore equally effective. Simethicone is an excellent choice for treating mosquito bites since it is very safe, inexpensive, and actually works!
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