Treating pruritus. What's new in safe relief of symptoms?

In several cutaneous disorders, pruritus is both the primary symptom and the cause of perpetuating factor. Therefore, one focus of therapy should be on treating pruritus and thereby preventing or aiding in the resolution of skin lesions. Several treatment options are available, including nonpharmacologic methods; use of emollients, tar preparations, and other topical agents; ultraviolet B therapy; and use of oral antihistamines or corticosteroids. A new topical tricyclic agent is now available that adds a promising therapeutic approach.