ĐÁNH GIÁ HIỆU QUẢ ĐIỀU TRỊ MÀY ĐAY MẠN TÍNH TỰ PHÁT KHÔNG ĐÁP ỨNG VỚI LIỀU CHUẨN BẰNG KHÁNG HISTAMIN ĐƯỜNG UỐNG LIỀU GẤP ĐÔI

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of double-dose cetirizine (20 mg/day) in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria unresponsive to standard-dose antihistamines.

Subjects and Methods: A prospective, descriptive, longitudinal study was conducted on 48 patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria. Patients received cetirizine 20 mg/day for 8 weeks. Treatment outcomes were assessed using pruritus score, wheal count, Urticaria Activity Score over 7 days (UAS-7), and quality of life (CU-Q2oL). Safety was evaluated based on adverse events.

Results: Clinical symptoms improved significantly after treatment. The median pruritus score decreased from 2.50 to 1.00; the number of wheals decreased from 3.00 to 1.00; and UAS-7 decreased from 38.50 to 14.00 (p < 0.001). Quality of life improved markedly, with CU-Q2oL decreasing from 107.00 to 46.50 (p < 0.001). Disease control was achieved in 27.1% of patients after 8 weeks, and 48% maintained disease control 4 weeks after treatment discontinuation. Adverse events were mild, with somnolence being the most common (12.5% at week 4 and 6.3% at week 8). No clinically significant laboratory abnormalities were observed. Baseline pruritus severity and wheal count were significantly associated with treatment response (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Double-dose cetirizine (20 mg/day) is an effective and safe treatment for chronic spontaneous urticaria unresponsive to standard therapy. Baseline disease severity may predict treatment response.