Skin test inhibition by astemizole.

For the purpose of evaluating the therapeutic effect of antihistamines, we have set up an assay method called the "Skin Test Inhibition Index" (STII). Twenty subjects with hay fever were given astemizole (10 mg/d) for 7 days. Skin titration tests were carried out before and after treatment. Significant inhibition of the skin test reaction by astemizole was demonstrated (STII = 91). Another group of 6 hay fever patients was given astemizole (10 mg/d) for 10 days, and STII was determined on days 5 and 10 and on days 7, 14 and 21 after treatment. STII were calculated as 12, 108, 90, 10 and 7, respectively. These results demonstrate that astemizole is a long-acting antihistamine.