Reasons for prescribing second generation antihistamines to treat allergic rhinitis in real-life conditions and patient response.

Background: Second generation H1 antihistamines (H1A) are currently recommended as first choice medications for allergic rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis. However, little is known about what influences the choice of prescription of one second generation (H1A) as opposed to another in real-life conditions.

Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the main criteria determining the choice of a second generation H1A by allergy specialists in mainland France.