A review of trial evidence published in the BMJ has found that adding oral antihistamines to standard eczema treatments is unlikely to produce meaningful improvements in skin symptoms, itch, or sleep.
Millions of people in the UK live with eczema (atopic dermatitis), and antihistamine tablets are widely used alongside prescribed creams and ointments — often on the assumption they’ll ease itching and help with broken sleep. But a review of the latest trial evidence, highlighted by the BMJ, suggests that benefit may not be there in practice.
According to the BMJ, the review found that oral antihistamines added to existing eczema treatments are unlikely to lead to clinically important reductions in eczema severity or itch. The evidence also suggests they may not reduce sleep disturbance or the frequency of flare-ups.
That’s a finding worth knowing — especially for parents of children with eczema, who are sometimes advised to try sedating antihistamines at night to help with sleep disruption caused by itching.
The review was led by researcher D.K. Chu and published under the BMJ’s research strand. It does not suggest antihistamines are harmful, but rather that the added benefit over standard treatments appears to be limited based on current trial data.
If you or your child has eczema and you’re unsure about current treatment, speak to your GP rather than changing medication on the basis of a single study. NHS 111 can also offer guidance if you need advice outside surgery hours.
Key information
- Speak to your GP if you have questions about your eczema treatment or current use of antihistamines
- Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice
- NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day for health queries — call 111
Source: @bmj_latest
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