What is a Patient Information Leaflet and why is it useful?

The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is the leaflet included in the pack with a medicine. It is written for patients and gives information about taking or using a medicine. It is possible that the leaflet in your medicine pack may differ from this version because it may have been updated since your medicine was packaged.

PDF icon Download Leaflet View the patient leaflet in PDF format

Below is a text only representation of the Patient Information Leaflet. The original leaflet can be viewed using the link above.

The text only version may be available in large print, Braille or audio CD. For further information call emc accessibility on 0800 198 5000. The product code(s) for this leaflet is: PL 00014/0440.

Boots Bite & Sting Relief Antihistamine Cream

Information for the user

Boots Bite & Sting Relief Antihistamine cream

(Mepyramine Maleate)

Read all of this carton for full instructions.

What this medicine is for

A soothing antihistamine cream for the relief of pain, itching and swelling caused by insect bites and stings, and nettle rash.

Before you use this medicine

Do not use:

  • If you are allergic to any of the ingredients or other antihistamines
  • If you have eczema or other skin conditions
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor tells you to
  • On broken skin, or on large areas of skin

Cetostearyl alcohol and lanolin may cause skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis).

How to use this medicine

Check the tube seal is not broken before first use. If it is, do not use the cream. Pierce tube seal with end of cap.

Apply to the skin only.

Adults and children: Smooth a very small amount on the affected area. Use the cream 2 or 3 times a day, for a maximum of 3 days.

If a rash develops, or the condition gets worse, stop using the cream.

If symptoms do not go away talk to your doctor.

If anyone accidentally swallows some: Talk to a doctor straight away.

Possible side effects

Most people will not have problems.

If you get these side effects stop using the cream and see a doctor.

  • Allergic reaction (e.g. skin rash, red or itchy skin, worsening of the condition you are treating)

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed on this carton. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store this medicine

Do not store above 25°C.

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.

Use by the date on the end flap of the carton.

Active ingredient

Mepyramine Maleate 2% w/w.

Also contains: purified water, cetostearyl alcohol, white soft paraffin, liquid paraffin, cetomacrogol 1000, anhydrous hypoallergenic lanolin, sorbitan sesquioleate, sodium citrate, citric acid monohydrate.

PL 00014/0440 P

Text prepared 10/14

Manufactured by

BCM Ltd
Nottingham
NG2 3AA

for the MAH:

The Boots Company PLC
Nottingham
NG2 3AA

Artwork reference BTC166268