H2-antihistamines for the treatment of anaphylaxis with and without shock: a systematic review

Background: Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic or hypersensitivity reaction, which is rapid in onset and sometimes can prove fatal. Although H-2-antihistamines are often administered for emergency treatment in anaphylaxis, there is uncertainty about their effectiveness in this disease. Objective: To assess the benefits and harms of H-2-antihistamines in the treatment of anaphylaxis. Methods: A systematic review was performed of randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing H-2-antihistamines with placebo or no intervention in patients with anaphylaxis. Results: The authors failed to identify any eligible studies for inclusion in this systematic review. Conclusion: When H-2-antihistamines are recommended for anaphylaxis treatment, the status of the evidence base supporting their use should be described. Well-designed randomized controlled trials investigating the role of H-2-antihistamines in anaphylaxis treatment are urgently needed. (C) 2014 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.