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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Acupuncture

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Barnett, UK

Has anyone tried acupuncture for itchiness with PBC. My itchiness is really getting me down. Even with the Questran powders I am still itching. I am having lukewarm showers, drinking water etc. etc. but it is still there.
Many thanks for any advice. Hope you are all okay.
Thank you
Debbie

April 22
 · 
Be the first to react
A myPBCteam Member

Thank you. I am going to try it out.
It is great to get advice from other people who have tried. it.

April 26
A myPBCteam Member

Acupuncture can absolutely help because the liver is directly related to our skin (our largest organ) and also our emotions so it can really boost our liver functioning. I've been doing acupuncture for over 30 years.

April 25
A myPBCteam Member

I've not tried anything medicated but I do like using the Johnsons baby oil GEL and coconut oil. Won't hurt... may help!! Good luck!!

April 22
myPBCteam

Has anyone tried acupuncture for itchiness with PBC?

It's understandable that you're looking for relief when cholestyramine (Questran) isn't fully controlling your itching. While acupuncture isn't mentioned in current PBC treatment guidelines, you're doing the right things with lukewarm showers and staying hydrated.

Since Show Full Answer

Has anyone tried acupuncture for itchiness with PBC?

It's understandable that you're looking for relief when cholestyramine (Questran) isn't fully controlling your itching. While acupuncture isn't mentioned in current PBC treatment guidelines, you're doing the right things with lukewarm showers and staying hydrated.

Since cholestyramine isn't giving you enough relief, there are several other prescription options your doctor might consider:

* Rifampin - A second-line medication that helps reduce itch signals sent to the brain
* Opioid antagonists (naltrexone or naloxone) - Block natural chemicals that may contribute to PBC-related itching
* Sertraline - An SSRI that has shown promise in small studies for reducing itch
* Emerging treatments - New medications like linerixibat are being studied specifically for PBC-related itching

If you're taking ursodiol (UDCA) along with cholestyramine, make sure you're spacing them 1-4 hours apart, as cholestyramine can interfere with absorption.

It's also worth asking your doctor about adjusting the timing or form of your cholestyramine, as this sometimes helps with effectiveness and tolerability.

Don't give up - many people need to try different approaches before finding what works for their itching.

April 22

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