High-dose Cetirizine for mitigation of Paclitaxel-induced hypersensitivity reactions

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Created On: 26/12/2024

Hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) are common adverse effects of Paclitaxel, affecting about 10% of patients, primarily during initial infusions. To mitigate these reactions, patients typically receive corticosteroids and antihistamines. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate if Cetirizine may help reduce HSRs when given before Paclitaxel infusions.

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Key take away

Adding high-dose Cetirizine to Paclitaxel infusions decreases the occurrence of hypersensitivity reactions and also lessens the severity of grade 3-4 allergic reactions.

Background

Method

Overall, there were 104 volunteers in the Cetirizine group and 124 volunteers in the control group. This study evaluated a new protocol using high-dose Cetirizine administered 12 and 6 hours before Paclitaxel infusion. The main goal was to compare HSR rates after the first cycle of treatment in a cohort receiving Cetirizine against a historical control group. Secondary endpoints encompassed the intensity of infusion reactions and the incidence of HSRs.

Result

Hypersensitivity reactions were observed in 37 patients (16.2%) overall, with no significant difference between groups. The control group exhibited more grade 3-4 HSRs when compared to the treatment group (Table 1).

Conclusion

A premedication regimen including high-dose Cetirizine was associated with diminished rates of HSRs and a drop in grade 3-4 HSRs intensity to Paclitaxel. Future research with larger cohorts and better compliance tracking is essential to fully evaluate Cetirizine’s potential in mitigating Paclitaxel-induced HSRs.

Source:

Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice

Link:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39042936/

Article:

Evaluating the efficacy of a premedication regimen including high-dose cetirizine in reduction of hypersensitivity reactions to paclitaxel: A retrospective cohort study