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Non‐Sedating Antihistamines for Premedication in Ambulatory Oncology Patients
Author(s) -
Siderov Jim,
Wendel Nan,
Davis Ian D
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
journal of pharmacy practice and research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 2055-2335
pISSN - 1445-937X
DOI - 10.1002/jppr2002322108
Subject(s) - medicine , premedication , loratadine , antihistamine , anesthesia , ambulatory , paclitaxel , tolerability , chemotherapy , adverse effect
Background: Antihistamines are commonly used as premedication against anaphylactic events associated with paclitaxel and rituximab. Commonly, intravenous (IV) H 1 ‐receptor antihistamines are used. Objective: To report our experience with the use of loratadine, an oral, non‐sedating H 1 ‐receptor antihistamine, in ambulatory care patients receiving premedication for either paclitaxel or rituximab. Method: Records of all patients who received loratidine in our ambulatory oncology day treatment centre were reviewed retrospectively. Results: Seventy‐one cycles (20 paclitaxel, 51 rituximab) of therapy were administered using loratadine as premedication. One patient who commenced loratadine reverted to IV promethazine following a rash reaction to rituximab. All other patients tolerated therapy well. There were no anaphylactic or infusion‐related problems. Conclusion: Loratadine 10 mg is well tolerated in ambulatory care patients receiving premedication for either paclitaxel or rituximab and should be considered in all ambulatory patients requiring an H 1 ‐receptor antihistamine where sedation is not appropriate.