text: what's the best way to get rid of poison ivy? i'm taking an anti-histamine and using topical anti-itch creams, but i would like to clear up my poison ivy the fastest way possible.  any suggestions? just got over the worst case. the doctor gave me some type of 6 day packet of steroid medicine. worked like a charm. it was terrible after 2-1/2 weeks, still spreading & with 4 days, no problem. he said calamine lotion was useless but the bentdral extra strength would help with itching - not enough for me. the steroids did the job.