Double-blind study of cetirizine in atopic eczema in children.

Abstract

An 8-week, double-blind study of the clinical efficacy of cetirizine was performed in a group of 6 to 12-year-old children suffering from atopic eczema. Patients were enrolled in the study if they presented the diagnostic criteria of atopic dermatitis established by Hanifin and Rajka. Pruritus in the cetirizine-treated group diminished significantly more rapidly than in the control group receiving only placebo. During the 8 weeks of the study, diary card scores showed a statistically significant decrease in erythema and other cutaneous symptoms, such as lichenification, in the cetirizine group. The children's parents did not observe any side effects (somnolence or decreased attention) during the study. The results of this preliminary study suggest that cetirizine can effectively control pruritus and other cutaneous symptoms in children suffering from atopic eczema without noticeable side effects.

• Authors: M La Rosa, C Ranno, I Musarra, F Guglielmo, A Corrias, J A Bellanti
• Journal: Annals of allergy (Ann Allergy) Vol. 73 Issue 2 Pg. 117-22 (Aug 1994) ISSN: 0003-4738 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8067594 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Immunoglobulin E
• Cetirizine

Topics

• Cetirizine (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Child
• Dermatitis, Atopic (drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Double-Blind Method
• Female
• Humans
• Immunoglobulin E (analysis)
• Male
• Skin Tests