Relief From the Sting/Burn (Anthisan Cream)

Member Name: JenJen1982

Product:	Anthisan Cream
Date:	29/07/09 (25 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Pleasant smell, actually works

Disadvantages: Must keep away from children!!

What Is Anthisan?

Anthisan is a registered trademark of Aventis Pharma Ltd. It is a cream specifically formulated for bites and stings, bringing relief from the pain and itching caused by insect bite and stings and the rash caused by a stinging nettle.
The Packaging

Anthisan comes in a pale yellow cardboard box with the name Anthisan in black bold letters and a picture of a wasp and a picture of a stinging nettle on the front of the box in two small circles. The packaging also describes what the cream is for, when the cream should be applied and the active ingredients. The expiry date can be found on one of the smaller ends of the cardboard packaging.
The cream itself comes in a white tube with directions for use on the front of the tube. To open the tube the foil on the tube needs to be broken by the small point in the lid of the tube.
The cardboard can be recycled after use, however it is advisable to take the tube to the local chemists' to be dispensed of.
The Ingredients

The active ingredient is Mepyramine Maleate (2%). It is an antihistamine known for its local analgesic and antipruritic (relief of itchiness) properties.
Other ingredients in the cream include ceto-stearyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol 600 monostearate and castor oil.
The Cream

The cream is white and a very thick texture and consistency. It has quite a pleasant smell and is almost immediately absorbed into the skin. The cream works pretty much straight away when applied, however I find it takes two applications to ease the itching sensation.
Application Of Anthisan

Apply directly to the bite/sting two to three times a day and ensure the first application is applied quickly after the bite/sting has occured. It is recommended to only use Anthisan on the same patch of skin for up to three days, and usage should then be stopped.
When Not To Use Anthisan

It is advised not to use this cream on eczema or broken/damaged skin, sunburnt skin or on children under two years of age. One of the rare side effects is a rash, and the use of the cream must be stopped immediately if this occurs. It is advised not to use Anthisan on larger areas of skin as it may cause drowsiness and confusion. Finally, do not use passed the cream's expiry date, which can be found on the cardboard packaging.
Value For Money

I bought a 20g tube in a sale for £0.79p during the winter. I do feel this is good value for money as the expiry date on the tube I bought is Feb 2011, so it is good to use for next year too.

Summary: Relief from pain and stinging of bites and stings