[The effect of desloratadine on use of rescue beta2-agonists and symptoms in patients suffering from seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma].

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) and intermittent asthma are frequently comorbid and share some pathophysiological, clinical and epidemiological bases which has been confirmed by ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) WHO position paper. Therapeutical consequences of H1 receptor antagonists treatment in patients with both SAR and asthma are not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of desloratadine (5 mg daily) on rescue medication use, symptoms of SAR and asthma. One hundred and ninteen patients (59 men), mean age 29.64 +/- 8.34 years, suffering from SAR and asthma were recruited. After 14 days of screening during the pollen season desloratadine in an open manner was introduced. During the treatment phase mean beta2 agonist weekly demand decreased from 11.73 +/- 8.91 (screening) to 4.89 +/- 7.09 (p < 0.001, Wilcoxon test). Mean symptoms score decreased from 13.37 +/- 5.93 to 5.19 +/- 4.7 and from 5.69 +/- 3.83 to 2.09 +/- 2.45 for SAR and asthma respectively (p < 0.001). Eight mild adverse events were reported with the most frequent-sleepiness (6.9% of study group). Desloratadine in the dosis of 5 mg daily confirmed its efficacy and safety in the treatment of patients with SAR and asthma. Decrease of beta2-agonist use and reduction of diseases symptoms was documented in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma.