Bepotastine besilate for the treatment of pruritus.

INTRODUCTION

Bepotastine besilate 1.5% is a newly approved second-generation topical antihistamine indicated for the pruritus associated with allergic conjunctivitis. In Japan, the oral formulation is approved to manage pruritus associated with allergic rhinitis and urticaria.

AREAS COVERED: Bepotastine is a piperidine derivative that antagonizes H1 receptors with high selectivity. It has been labeled a dual-acting or multiple-acting antiallergic medication, because it inhibits histamine at H1 receptors and stabilizes mast cells to prevent histamine release. Bepotastine may also have other immunoactive properties, such as inhibition of eosinophil migration, interleukin-5 (IL-5), leukotrienes (e.g., LTB4) and platelet-activating factor (PAF). Human clinical trials demonstrate the efficacy and safety of systemic and ophthalmic bepotastine for pruritus relief, limited penetration across the blood-brain-barrier and kinetics suitable for twice-daily administration.

EXPERT OPINION: Bepotastine besilate 1.5% ophthalmic solution is a safe and effective treatment option for allergic conjunctivitis associated pruritus. Side-effect profile is similar to other ocular antihistamine agents. Additional comparative-effectiveness studies would further advance its clinical use. Oral bepotastine is a safe and effective treatment option approved in Japan for allergic rhinitis, urticaria and pruritus associated with skin diseases.