Levocetirizine and rupatadine in chronic idiopathic urticaria

摘要

Background Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a common dermatological condition. Its pathogenesis involves mainly histamine and also other mediators, including platelet-activating factor (PAF) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). In the absence of an exact etiology, H-1-antihistaminics are the mainstay of treatment. Levocetirizine is widely prescribed for CIU. Rupatadine, a newer antihistaminic, has PAF receptor antagonist activity and has shown anti-TNF-alpha activity in vitro. These additional anti-inflammatory effects may improve its efficacy.