Terfenadine and placebo compared in the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria: a randomised double-blind study

Terfenadine, a potent and non-sedative antihistamine, was shown to be effective in chronic idiopathic urticaria in a double-blind crossover placebo controlled trial. An oral twice daily 60 mg dose of terfenadine was given and itch and wheal parameters were assessed daily. Despite the overall effectiveness of terfenadine, a variable response was noted which was similar to that shown in previous studies with other antihistamines.