[Ebastine vs terfenadine in allergic rhinitis].

A prospective, comparative, random study was conducted with 40 patients treated with ebastine vs. terfenadine. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of both as second generation antihistamines used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Ten milligrams of ebastine was administered once a day before breakfast (fasting), in 5 and 10 year old children and 20 mg in 11 to 15 year olds. Ebastine was more efficient in the control of symptoms (rhinorrhea, nasal obstruction, sneezing, eye and nose itching) than terfenadine from the seventh day on, (p 0.05). Tolerance to ebastine was good, although a small number of patients (1.5%) suffered collateral symptoms: sleepiness, headaches and nausea. The two doses of ebastine (10 or 20 mg depending on the patients age) had overall efficacy rates better than terfenadine (p 0.05%).