Antihistamines versus aspirin for itching in late pregnancy.
BACKGROUND
While not common, itching in pregnancy (not due to liver disease) can be distressing.


OBJECTIVE
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of treatment for itching in late pregnancy.


METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register. In addition, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL/CCTR) was searched. Date of last search: April 1999.


METHODS
Randomised trials of treatments for itching in women in late pregnancy with normal liver function.


METHODS
Trial quality was assessed and data were extracted independently by two reviewers.


RESULTS
One study of 38 women was included. This was a small crossover trial, using alternate allocation. The trial compared a histamine, chlorpheniramine, with aspirin. Aspirin was more effective than chlorpheniramine in relieving itching (odds ratio 2. 39, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 4.57). However chlorpheniramine was more effective than aspirin when a rash was present.


CONCLUSIONS
Aspirin appears to be more effective than chlorpheniramine for relief of itching in pregnancy when no rash is present. If there is a rash, chlorpheniramine may be more effective.
Young
G L
GL
Barn Croft Surgery, Temple Sowerby, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 1RZ. youngjckvg@compuserve.com
Jewell
D
D
D000982:Antipruritics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001241:Aspirin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002744:Chlorpheniramine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011263:Pregnancy Trimester, Third; D011537:Pruritus / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000982:Antipruritics; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists; D002744:Chlorpheniramine; D001241:Aspirin