Effect of cetirizine on bronchial hyperresponsiveness in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma

• DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2001.00629.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-11T01:45:05Z
• Authors: M. Aubier; C. Neukirch; C. Peiffer; M. Melac
• Keywords: Methacholine; Cetirizine; Bronchial hyperresponsiveness; Crossover study

Although H 1 antihistamine compounds (H ) are highly effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR), their role asthma is still controversial. Because a strong association between AR and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) has been reported, this study was designed to assess effect new anti histamine, cetirizine (C), on nonspecific BHR patients with AR. Twelve were included double‐blind, crossover, placebo‐controlled trial. All had positive skin tests for common allergens showed inhaled methacholine after specific nasal allergenic challenge. After washout period week ensure stability BHR, received, by crossover randomization, C 10 mg daily or placebo (P) 2 weeks. each period, blocking index (NBI) measured 6 h Bronchial responsiveness expressed as PD 20 , provocation dose causing 20% decrease FEV . Measurements then performed weeks P. Baseline values (median) before challenge no difference (1.36 mg). Results allergen did not show significant differences (methacholine =0.522 mg) =0.455 By contrast, challenge, 0.918 0.483 P ( =0.042). Similarly, NBI change whereas =0.011). These data demonstrate protective against They suggest that may be useful associated