A review of the evidence from comparative studies of levocetirizine and desloratadine for the symptoms of allergic rhinitis
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Levocetirizine and desloratadine are newer antihistamines indicated for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of levocetirizine and desloratadine and reviews studies that have directly compared the effects of these 2 drugs in allergic rhinitis and urticaria.
METHODS: Relevant articles were identified through a search of MEDLINE from 1999 through 2004 using the main search terms levocetirizine and desloratadine.
RESULTS: Levocetirizine is absorbed rapidly and reaches a steady-state plasma concentration more quickly than does desloratadine. It is also metabolized to a lesser extent than desloratadine, has a lower V(d), and has higher specificity for histamine(1) receptors. Eight well-controlled trials were identified that directly compared the effects of levocetirizine and desloratadine in the skin and nose of healthy individuals and patients with allergic rhinitis. Drug activity was measured in terms of wheal, flare, and itch reactions; nasal symptoms or symptom scores; increases in concentrations of inflammatory markers; or facial thermography. In most of these trials, levocetirizine had a faster onset and greater consistency of effect than desloratadine. The differences in the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of the 2 drugs may partially explain these clinical findings.
CONCLUSIONS: Levocetirizine may be preferred to desloratadine as a treatment…
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