Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria with Fexofenadine and Hydroxyzine Hcl in Libyan Patients

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU) is characterised by short-lived circumscribed erythematous, edematous and itchy wheals usually lasting for few hours to few days. It may last for a period of at least six weeks or more without an identifiable causes and negative influence on the quality of life. It's a disabling affliction that considerably limits patients' daily activities. Fexofenadine hydrochloride is a carboxylated metabolic derivative of Terfenadineand third generation selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist with non-sedative effects. Hydroxyzine Hcl (Atarax) is a antihistamine H1 blocker with anticholinergic and sedative properties that relieve the symptoms of allergy.

Aim: The present study aims at assessing the efficacy and safety of combined administration of the Fexofenadine and Hydroxyzine Hcl for the treatment of CIU.

Methodology: The study was conducted on 48 Libyan patients (22 females and 26 males), with a mean age of 37 years (21-65 year olds). All patients were diagnosed with CIU. The study was done during January 2016 to December 2016. The average duration of the disease was 6 months (4-10months). All patients were examined to rule out any triggers. Patients were treated with 120 mg of fexofenadine in the day time and 25 mg of hydroxazine at the night, for a period of 3 weeks, with a follow up at zero, two and three weeks for treatment response.

Results: The combination of Fexofinadine and Hydroxyzine was found to be effective against Urticariasymptoms in the 48 patients with CIU. A good response was observed in 16 patients (33%) and a very good response was found in 18 patients (37.5 %) whereas, a satisfactory response was seen in 8 patients (17%). In 6 patients (12.5 %) an unsatisfactory response was noted. Moreover a good tolerance against the combination of Fexofinadine and Hydroxyzine in the patient sample was reported.

Conclusion: The combination of Fexofenadine and Hydroxazineappears was found to be an effective and safe treatment for CIU, as it was found to improve Urticaria symptoms and the quality of life. Additionally it might also benefit patients who do not respond to single anti-allergic drug.