Antihistamines for children with otitis media [Les antihistaminiques pour les enfants souffrant d'otite moyenne]

摘要

Question Otitis media is a very common condition in pediatrics and can be quite distressing for children and their parents. Is there a role for antihistamines and decongestants in the management of acute otitis media or otitis media with effusion in children? Answer Traditionally, antihistamines and decongestants have been used in the treatment of otitis media; however, recent guidelines, which are based on study findings with negative results, recommend against routine use. No antihistamine-decongestant combination has been shown to be of clinically significant benefit, and there are potential adverse events that need to be taken into account.