Gavin Young1, David Jewell. 1. Temple Sowerby Medical Practice, Linden Park, Temple Sowerby, Penrith, Cumbria, UK, CA10 1RW.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: While not common, itching in pregnancy (not due to liver disease) can be distressing. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of treatment for itching in late pregnancy. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register (January 2007). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised trials of treatments for itching in women in late pregnancy with normal liver function. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: One study of 38 women was included. This was a small crossover trial, using alternate allocation. The trial compared a histamine, chlorpheniramine, with aspirin. Aspirin was more effective than chlorpheniramine in relieving itching (odds ratio 2.39, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 4.57). However, chlorpheniramine was more effective than aspirin when a rash was present. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Aspirin appears to be more effective than chlorpheniramine for relief of itching in pregnancy when no rash is present. If there is a rash, chlorpheniramine may be more effective.
BACKGROUND: While not common, itching in pregnancy (not due to liver disease) can be distressing. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of treatment for itching in late pregnancy. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register (January 2007). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised trials of treatments for itching in women in late pregnancy with normal liver function. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: One study of 38 women was included. This was a small crossover trial, using alternate allocation. The trial compared a histamine, chlorpheniramine, with aspirin. Aspirin was more effective than chlorpheniramine in relieving itching (odds ratio 2.39, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 4.57). However, chlorpheniramine was more effective than aspirin when a rash was present. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS:Aspirin appears to be more effective than chlorpheniramine for relief of itching in pregnancy when no rash is present. If there is a rash, chlorpheniramine may be more effective.