WITHDRAWN: Antihistamines versus aspirin for itching in late pregnancy.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 (January 2007).


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


METHODS
Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.


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.
Temple Sowerby Medical Practice, Linden Park, Temple Sowerby, Penrith, Cumbria, UK, CA10 1RW.
Gavin
G
Young
David
D
Jewell
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