Balanced discussion of second-generation antihistamines' data.

Abstract

Balanced discussion of second-generation antihistamines' data Rossen Boev,1 Jürgen WG Bentz2 1UCB Pharma, Bulle, Switzerland; 2UCB Pharma, Brussels, BelgiumDear editorIt is with interest that we read the paper “Treatment of allergic rhinitis and urticaria: a review of the newest antihistamine drug bilastine” by Wang et al, in which the authors provide insights into the burden of allergic diseases in the Asia-Pacific region. Unfortunately, we found that the review provides some unsubstantiated information, incorrect statements, and/or data inconsistencies as listed below.The abstract states that bilastine “has very low potential for drug–drug interactions”; however, the drug label lists interactions with ketoconazole, erythromycin, diltiazem, and other intestinal efflux transporters, leading to 2–3-fold increases in drug maximum serum concentration and area under the curve. Also, food interactions decrease bilastine’s bioavailability by 30%, and the label recommendation is that it is taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after intake of food or fruit juice. View the original article by Wang et al.