[Comparative study of ketotiphen and oxatomide (repeated skin- and nasal provocation)]

The authors report a comparative study on the effects of ketotifen and oxatomide on repeated provocation of the skin and the nasal mucosa in 16 children (4 girls and 12 boys, average age 12.0 +/- 3.25 yr) with diagnosed seasonal allergic rhinitis. Preceding and following a 4-week ketotifen or oxatomide treatment, a quantitative prick skin test was performed and evaluated by planimetry and a specific nasal provocation (SNP) was performed and objectivated by rhinothermometry. Both the oedematous skin reactions induced by histamine and allergen and the clinical and thermal scores obtained by direct observation of the shock organ (SNP) were decreased more strongly by ketotiten than by oxatomide. The results of preseasonal in vivo pharmacodynamic studies are expected to permit more effective, individual medication before the pollen season or at the first sign of the symptoms.