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Antidepressants in chronic idiopathic urticaria
Michelle R Yasharpour1, Inderpal Randhawa
1Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA. myasharp@uci.edu
Allergy and Asthma Proceedings
|January 7, 2012
Summary
Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a difficult-to-treat skin condition. This review explores psychotropic medications as alternative treatments for refractory CIU, particularly when psychiatric issues are present.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) affects approximately 0.1% of the population.
- CIU is often challenging to manage effectively with standard treatments.
- Concurrent psychiatric conditions can complicate CIU management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the pathophysiology of chronic urticaria.
- To present alternative treatment options for refractory CIU.
- To highlight the role of psychotropic medications in managing CIU, especially with psychiatric comorbidities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on CIU pathophysiology.
- Review of research on psychotropic medications for CIU treatment.
- Analysis of case reports and clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Psychotropic medications have shown success in treating refractory CIU.
- Certain psychotropic agents may offer benefits for patients with co-occurring psychiatric conditions.
- Evidence suggests a potential link between psychological factors and CIU exacerbation.
Conclusions:
- Psychotropic medications represent a viable alternative for refractory CIU.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the efficacy and mechanisms of psychotropic drugs in CIU.
- Clinicians should consider psychotropic options for patients with difficult-to-treat CIU and psychiatric comorbidities.
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