First drug to protect against poison ivy - the FDA approved Enviroderm's non-prescription ointment Ivy Block, which should be applied before exposure - Updates - Brief Article

FDA Consumer, Nov, 1996

The first drug to protect against poison ivy, oak or sumac covers the sking with a clay-like coating as it dries. Available without a prescription, Ivy Block (bentoquatam 5 percent), a lotion approved by FDA last Aug. 26, protects against or reduces the severity of the rash caused by poison ivy, oak of sumac if applied to the skin at least 15 minutes before exposure. After it dries, the clay-like coating indicates where the skin is protected.

The drug may be especially useful to park rangers, emergency workers, hikers, and others who find if difficult to avoid poison ivy. As long as the possibility of exposure to the poisonous plants exists. Ivy Block should be reapplied every four hours for continued protection. It can be washed off with soap and water.

Ivy Block should not be used by anyone who already has a rash from these plants. It is not recommended for children under 6.

Environment of Louisville, Ky., manufacturers Ivy Block.

(See also "Outsmarting Poison Ivy and It's cousin" in the September 1996 FDA Consumer.)