Evaluation of efficacy and safety of desloratadine syrup in childhood atopic dermatitis

Aim. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy, safety and adverse effects of desloratadine (DL), a H₁-receptor antagonist, as syrup in children with atopic dermatitis (AD). Methods. Forty patients aged between 6 and 12 years were selected from a sample of children with AD referred to our institute from April to July 2003; DL syrup was administered once daily (5 mL - 2.5 mg) for 28 days. We evaluated the efficacy of treatment by SCORAD index and the possible adverse events at day 8, 15 and 29. Results. As for the global therapeutic response we observed complete relief in 12.5%, marked relief in 70%, moderate relief in 15% and slight relief in 2.5% of the patients. Thirty-three children (82.5%) did not show any adverse event. Conclusion. DL syrup is a valid treatment of AD in children. We observed a reduction of signs and symptoms that characterize AD, due to anti-itching and anti-inflammatory activity of DL. This is also a good tolerated drug, as only 17.5% of children showed adverse events.