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[Desloratadine for chronic idiopathic urticaria]
Menachem Rottem1, Daniel Elbirt, Zev Sthoeger
1Division of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, HaEmek Medical Center Afula, Israel. menachem@rottem.net
Harefuah
|September 9, 2005
Summary
Desloratadine effectively treats chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU), improving quality of life and reducing hives. This study found significant symptom relief in over half of CIU patients, demonstrating desloratadine
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a prevalent condition causing significant quality of life impairment.
- While H1 receptor antagonists are first-line treatments for CIU, their efficacy is often insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of desloratadine in managing CIU among Israeli patients.
- To evaluate desloratadine's impact on quality of life and symptom severity in CIU.
Main Methods:
- An open-label, multicenter study involving 10 centers in Israel.
- 104 patients with moderate CIU, previously treated with antihistamines, received desloratadine 5 mg daily for 28 days.
- Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and CIU severity were assessed weekly.
Main Results:
- Desloratadine treatment led to significant improvements in 10 dermatologic quality of life parameters and work productivity.
- A notable decrease in CIU symptoms, including hive count and size, was observed.
- 51% of patients reported complete or marked relief, while 20% experienced no relief. Mild adverse events were reported in 10 patients.
Conclusions:
- Desloratadine demonstrates successful efficacy in treating chronic idiopathic urticaria.
- The study supports desloratadine as a viable treatment option for CIU patients experiencing inadequate relief from other therapies.