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Comparative efficacy of H1 antihistamines
1Department of Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago.
Annals of Allergy
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Second-generation H1 receptor antagonists offer improved allergy relief with less sedation and longer effectiveness than older antihistamines. These drugs effectively treat allergic rhinitis and urticaria, with some showing promise for asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- First-generation antihistamines cause significant sedation and anticholinergic side effects.
- Second-generation H1 receptor antagonists provide a safer and more effective alternative for allergy treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the advantages and effectiveness of second-generation H1 receptor antagonists.
- To compare their efficacy against placebo and first-generation antihistamines in treating allergic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.
- Comparison of terfenadine with chlorpheniramine and cetirizine with astemizole for allergic rhinitis.
- Assessment of efficacy in seasonal/perennial rhinitis, chronic urticaria, and bronchial asthma.
Main Results:
- Second-generation antihistamines are less sedating and have fewer anticholinergic effects.
- Drugs like terfenadine, cetirizine, astemizole, loratadine, azelastine, and acrivastine show significant improvement in allergic rhinitis and urticaria symptoms compared to placebo.
- Some studies suggest a role in managing bronchial asthma.
Conclusions:
- Second-generation H1 receptor antagonists are well-absorbed orally and offer significant benefits over older antihistamines.
- They provide effective relief for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria, with potential applications in asthma management.