When unrestrained and scratching vigorously, itches that can bleed increase the risk of infection.
Skin itching caused by advanced chronic kidney disease is not easy to treat.
However, a specialist may recommend topical, oral medications to help reduce the level of itching.
In general, itching associated with CKD is most often treated with drugs such as:
Gabapentin or pregabalin: These are both anticonvulsants that can relieve itching by acting on the nerves.
Patients may experience side effects after taking the drug such as drowsiness and dizziness, so the dosage must be carefully monitored.
