New antihistamines alert for one group in UK as 'no benefit' found

New antihistamines alert for one group in UK as 'no benefit' found Doubt has been cast on their effectiveness A group of people in the UK using antihistamines are being given a new alert. Giving people with eczema antihistamines to manage their symptoms likely offers no meaningful benefit while “probably increasing harms”, a study suggests. Experts said the findings address “longstanding uncertainty” on the role of antihistamines in eczema treatment and called for updated guidance. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes itchiness. It is estimated to impact around one in five children and one in 10 adults in the UK. According to researchers, around one in five eczema patients in the UK use antihistamines. Antihistamines are not recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) to routinely manage the condition. However, they are sometimes offered if flare-ups are linked to hives or another allergic reaction, while the short-term use of sedative antihistamines can help those whose itching is severely disturbing sleep. Experts in Canada reviewed 47 trials including more than 6,200 children and adults with moderate to severe eczema. They found that, when compared with a placebo, antihistamines led to a “clinically unimportant reduction” in the severity of eczema and itchiness. Antihistamines may also “not reduce sleep disturbance” and eczema flare-ups, the study suggests. First-generation drugs, which often cause drowsiness, may also increase cognitive impairment and could lead to patients discontinuing treatment due to side effects. Researchers said their findings, published in the BMJ, address the “longstanding uncertainty surrounding the role of antihistamines” in treating eczema, and show “they likely do not” improve patient outcomes and “while probably increasing harms”. They added: “Our findings do not support their use in routine atopic dermatitis management. “We have provided a foundation for an evidence-based change in practice, supporting the development of updated atopic dermatitis guidelines that prioritise efficacy, safety, and patient-centred care.”