Antihistamines for treating rhinosinusitis: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies.

BACKGROUND

Without the release of histamines, patients with rhinosinusitis may not benefit from antihistamines. Additionally, anticholinergic effects may do more harm than good. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of antihistamines in treating rhinosinusitis.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed. Randomised controlled trials comparing antihistamines with either placebo or other treatments for patients with rhinosinusitis were selected.

RESULTS

Two studies (184 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Loratadine decreased nasal obstruction in allergic rhinitis patients with acute rhinosinusitis (mean difference = -0.58; confidence interval = -0.85 to -0.31, p < 0.01), but had no benefit on total symptom score (mean difference = -1.25; confidence interval = -2.77 to 0.27, p = 0.11), or rhinorrhoea symptoms (mean difference = -0.06; confidence interval = -0.37 to 0.25, p = 0.71).

CONCLUSION

There is limited evidence to support the use of antihistamines in treating rhinosinusitis. The number of included studies in this systematic review is limited. Antihistamines may relieve nasal obstruction in allergic rhinitis patients with acute rhinosinusitis.