Treatments for chronic hives include: Allergy medications: Daily over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription allergy medications like antihistamines relieve itching and reduce or prevent allergic reactions. Allergy shots: A monthly injection of a drug called omalizumab (Xolair®) blocks your body’s production of immunoglobin E (IgE).

Cool, wet cloths put on the affected skin may help to reduce itch and discomfort. Non-drowsy antihistamines are a good treatment for hives. They won’t cure the hives, but help to lessen severity and itch. People with chronic urticaria may be advised to use them by their doctor to help reduce symptoms happening so often.

Treatment with antihistamines or other medications will usually clear it up. But it may reappear when treatment is stopped. If you have a severe case of hives or if they last for several days, you should see your doctor.

Omalizumab is an FDA approved treatment of chronic urticaria. This medication is injected under the skin once a month. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or prednisolone may help hives. These are not an ideal treatment for long-term use but may have a role to relieve severe symptoms for a few days.