Cost-benefit analysis of first-generation antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Background: The majority of individuals with allergic rhinitis in the US take first-generation antihistamines (FGAs). Although FGAs have been proven effective in alleviating allergic rhinitis symptoms, they have been associated with an increased risk of motor vehicle, aviation and occupational injuries and deaths, reduced productivity and impaired learning.

Objective: The objective of this analysis was to quantify the total costs and benefits of FGA use in the US from the societal perspective.

Transitioning the second-generation antihistamines to over-the-counter status: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

Background: A U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee deemed the second-generation antihistamines (SGA) safe for over-the-counter use against the preliminary opposition of the manufacturers.

Current approaches to the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Current approaches to the prevention, detection, treatment, and monitoring of postmenopausal osteoporosis are discussed. In the United States, 44 million men and women ages 50 years or older have low bone mass or osteoporosis. The most devastating consequence of this disease is fractures.

Lack of diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in men and women after hip fracture.

Study Objective: To determine whether men and women admitted to a university teaching hospital for a low-trauma hip fracture were diagnosed, evaluated, or treated for osteoporosis during admission or for up to 1 year after admission.

Design: Retrospective chart review.

Setting: University of Colorado Hospital, Denver, Colorado.

Second-generation antihistamines: the OTC debate.

Objective: To demonstrate that the safety profiles of second-generation antihistamines (SGAs) meet the criteria set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for switching these products to over-the-counter (OTC) status.

Data Sources: MEDLINE search of articles published from 1970 through 2000.

Summary: Most patients with allergic rhinitis treat their symptoms with first-generation antihistamines (FGAs), which are available over-the-counter (OTC).