Efficacy of Ketotifen for Chronic Urticaria and Angioedema Treatment

Ketotifen in the treatment of chronic urticaria and angioedema?

The phrase "complete curation in 16 patients" in the context of the article refers to "complete cure" for those 16 patients, indicating that they achieved a full resolution of their chronic urticaria symptoms.
However, it is important to note that "complete cure" does not necessarily guarantee that the condition will not recur after discontinuation of treatment.
Recurrence can occur in some patients, and the long-term outcomes can vary based on individual circumstances.

Chen Huan-yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/15

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your message.
The article you are looking for is quite old (from 1984), and the evidence is outdated.
Additionally, the original text is in Spanish, with only the abstract available in English, so my understanding is limited to the abstract's explanation.
Regarding your questions, I respond as follows: 1.
Literally, "complete curation" does indeed mean "cure," not "completion of treatment." 2.
A point to note about the article is that it does not provide a definition of "complete curation" within the text.
If the full text were available and understandable in Spanish, it would be important to pay attention to how the author defines "complete curation." For instance, if the author states that being free of symptoms for one year constitutes a cure, I would suggest interpreting this as "no recurrence within one year after treatment ends," but whether recurrence occurs afterward is another matter.
After all, chronic urticaria can still recur, although the frequency and severity of recurrences may decrease and lessen with age.
The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2021/04/15

More Info

Ketotifen is an antihistamine that is commonly used in the treatment of chronic urticaria (hives) and angioedema. Its efficacy in managing these conditions has been documented in various studies, including the one you referenced with PMID: 6731202. In this study, the authors reported satisfactory results in 80.8% of the cases treated with ketotifen, with complete resolution of symptoms in 16 patients.
To clarify your question regarding the term "complete curation," it generally refers to a complete resolution of the symptoms rather than merely completing the treatment course. This means that those 16 patients experienced a significant alleviation of their symptoms, potentially indicating that their urticaria or angioedema was resolved. However, it is essential to note that "complete curation" does not necessarily imply that the condition will not recur after discontinuation of the medication. Chronic urticaria can be a relapsing condition, and while some patients may achieve long-term remission, others may experience a return of symptoms after stopping treatment.

The mechanism by which ketotifen works involves blocking histamine receptors, which are responsible for allergic reactions. By inhibiting these receptors, ketotifen can reduce the symptoms associated with urticaria, such as itching, swelling, and redness. Additionally, ketotifen has some anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to its effectiveness in treating chronic urticaria.

In terms of long-term management, ketotifen is often used as a part of a broader treatment strategy that may include other antihistamines or corticosteroids, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's response to therapy. It is crucial for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and symptoms.

While ketotifen is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal disturbances. It is important to monitor for these side effects, especially if the patient is required to perform tasks that require full alertness, such as driving.

In conclusion, ketotifen can be an effective treatment for chronic urticaria and angioedema, with a significant percentage of patients experiencing complete resolution of symptoms. However, the potential for recurrence after stopping the medication should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Ongoing management and monitoring are essential to ensure the best outcomes for patients suffering from these conditions. If you have further questions or concerns about your treatment, I encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations.

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