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Topical azelastine in perennial allergic conjunctivitis.
G W Canonica1, G Ciprandi, U Petzold
1Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
Current Medical Research and Opinion
|July 5, 2003
Summary
Azelastine eye drops effectively reduced itching and redness in perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC) patients compared to placebo. The treatment demonstrated good tolerability and was as effective as levocabastine over six weeks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Azelastine is a selective H1-receptor antagonist with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Previous studies showed efficacy in seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
- Azelastine shows potential for treating perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of azelastine eye drops in patients with PAC.
- To compare azelastine's effectiveness against placebo and levocabastine.
Main Methods:
- A multinational, randomized trial involving 139 PAC patients.
- Twice-daily treatment for 6 weeks with 0.05% azelastine eye drops, placebo, or levocabastine.
- Patients required a minimum symptom score after one week of placebo for randomization.
Main Results:
- Azelastine significantly improved itching and conjunctival redness compared to placebo (p < 0.001).
- Symptom scores improved progressively up to 6 weeks.
- Tolerability was comparable to placebo; common side effects included bitter taste and application site reactions.
Conclusions:
- Topical azelastine provides progressive relief from itching and redness in PAC patients.
- Azelastine is at least as effective as levocabastine.
- The rapid and sustained improvement suggests H1-receptor antagonism and potentially other anti-inflammatory mechanisms.