Abstract

Bepotastine besilate is a selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist and a second-generation non-sedating antihistamine approved for relief from pruritis in various dermatological disorders.
Aim: To study the real world efficacy and tolerance of bepotastine in cutaneous disorders associated with pruritus and other symptoms (redness, wheal and angioedema), by assessing patient’s perceived symptomatic improvement.
Methodology: Adult patients presenting clinically with any of the symptoms: pruritis, redness, wheal or angioedema, associated with skin conditions, were evaluated to record patient’s end of treatment perception of improvement in the presenting symptoms, as well as tolerance to treatment, in response to bepotastine 10mg twice a day. Adverse events if any were recorded, assessed and managed.
Results: Overall for each symptom, complete or significant relief was obtained by >80% patients (P<0.001). Average treatment duration was 21 days or less in 80% patients. Patients achieving complete relief was maximum between 14-21 days. The adverse event rate was low at 0.3%.
Conclusion: Bepotastine 20mg/day, is an effective and well tolerated treatment for improving pruritis and other symptoms: erythema, wheal and angioedema, associated with cutaneous disorders, with an optimum treatment duration of 14-21 days.