Comparative Study of Bilastine and Fexofenadine in Control of Intermittent Allergic Rhinitis

ABSTRACT

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) impacts 10-30% of the world affecting the quality of life of many. Hence, the requirement of a treatment targeted at delivering maximum symptom control and has minimum to no side effects. Objectives: Comparison of efficacy of Bilastine and Fexofenadine in patients suffering from intermittent allergic rhinitis with the help of Total Nasal Symptom Scoring(TNSS) and assessment of side effects- sedation and cardiac toxicity. Methodology: 60 subjects diagnosed with intermittent allergic rhinitis (IAR) were recruited and divided into groups of 30 each. One group was started on Bilastine 20mg OD and the other on Fexofenadine 120mg OD. TNSS was calculated based on symptom severity at presentation, on 10th day and 30th of antihistamine therapy. AEC values and ECG changes were compared for both groups at day 0, day 30. Measurement of sedation was done at day 10, day 30. Intergroup comparison and intragroup assessment of TNSS and its variables, sedative effects and ECG changes at day 0 and day 30 were done using Un-paired and Paired T-test. Results: Patients showed reduction in symptoms of AR with both drugs. TNSS and Rhinorrhoea showed significant improvement in Fexofenadine group as compared to Bilastine. AEC values showed significant reduction in both groups. Statistically significant ECG changes were seen after 30 days of Fexofenadine therapy but were clinically insignificant. No sedative effects were noted with both drugs. Conclusion: Both Bilastine and Fexofenadine were found to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with IAR. Fexofenadine was more effective than Bilastine in overall symptom control and specifically in controlling rhinorrhoea after one month of therapy. Both the drugs had no sedative effects or cardiac toxicity.