Are antihistamines effective in children? A review of the evidence

Background and aims During the last decades, much attention has been paid to off-label and unlicensed prescriptions in paediatrics. However, on-label prescribing can also cause health issues. In this paper, the case of first-generation H-1-antihistamines is investigated, notably the range of indications for which products are licensed in different European countries and the evidence base (or lack thereof) for each indication, as well as reported adverse drug reactions. Methods Review of the Summary of Product Characteristics of first-generation H-1-antihistamines with a focus on paediatric use. This is plotted against the evidence available in the literature. Results This investigation shows a large variability in labelled indications and licensing ages when compared in five different European countries. Moreover, most of the indications are not based on clinical trials evaluating efficacy and safety of these drugs in children. Conclusions Many of the licensed indications of first-generation antihistamines do not appear to be evidence based.