Abstract Background Pruritus is a frequent symptom experienced by patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Aquagenic pruritus (AP) is the most common type. The Myeloproliferative Neoplasm-Symptom Assessment Form Total Symptom Score (MPN-SAF TSS) self-report questionnaires were distributed to MPN patients before consultations. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess clinical incidence (phenotypical evolution and […]
Zantac Recall Expands, New Options help PV patients calm Itching
MPN Patients have multiple Over The Counter options to relieve Itching! by Jennifer Acker For many PV patients the combination of Zantac (an H2 blocker) and Zyrtec (an H1 blocker) have been effective in providing relief from pruritus, a severe itching condition that is a common MPN symptom. PV Reporter first uncovered this impressive treatment […]
A Bad day Living with Polycythemia Vera
Publishers Note: This note was sent to me on the comments/share a story part of this website and grabbed my attention. It was written by Mike Norris. After exchanging several emails, he said “I am not always Mr Gloom and Doom, I just waxed poetic one night and wrote out what was going on inside […]
Mast Cells and Histamine in MPN Related Itching Explained
Updated Feb. 21, 2025 MPN patients suffering from intense itching have long relied on a combination of over-the-counter medications for relief, commonly known as the “Z and Z combo” – Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Zantac (ranitidine). However, in 2020, Zantac faced a widespread recall due to concerns over potential carcinogenic contaminants. This development left many MPN […]
Over the Counter Combo of Zyrtec and Zantac helping PV patients get relief from Itching!
Part 1 in a New Series: “Addressing MPN Symptoms” by David Wallace updated April 15, 2025 2025 Update: Beta-Alanine has also been used successfully to beat itching MPN patients experiencing severe itching have traditionally turned to a combination of over-the-counter remedies, often referred to as the “Z and Z combo,” which includes Zyrtec (cetirizine) and […]
