Iatrogenic nocturnal eneuresis an overlooked side effect of anti histamines?

D Italiano, F Italiano, C Genovese

  • 1Allergology and Immunology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.

Insights

Nocturnal enuresis, or bedwetting, can be a side effect of antihistamines like cetirizine in children. This case study highlights a potential link between antihistamine use and the development of childhood bedwetting.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Nocturnal enuresis is a common childhood disorder with incompletely understood causes.
  • Iatrogenic nocturnal enuresis has been linked to certain psychotropic medications.

Observation:

  • A 6-year-old child developed nocturnal enuresis while undergoing treatment with the antihistamine cetirizine.
  • The enuresis resolved upon discontinuation and recurred upon readministration of cetirizine, indicating a positive drug rechallenge.

Findings:

  • Antihistamine treatment, specifically with cetirizine, may induce nocturnal enuresis in susceptible children.
  • This effect could be related to cetirizine's impact on neurotransmitter pathways involved in bladder control, such as noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider antihistamines like cetirizine as a potential cause of iatrogenic nocturnal enuresis in pediatric patients.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which antihistamines affect bladder function and neurotransmitter balance.

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