
November 2002 From Ketchum Clash of the Titans The world's first presentation of head-to-head data on new-generation POM antihistamines Allergic rhinitis affects at least 10% to 25% of the population and its prevalence is increasing. Asthma and rhinitis are common co-morbidities, suggesting the concept of 'one airway, one disease' (1). The optimal treatment of allergic rhinitis may decrease the symptoms of concomitant asthma (1). Antihistamines are the mainstay of treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever), perennial allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. Two new generation antihistamines (prescription only medicines) have been launched in the last two years. However, no head-to-head clinical trial data have been available on these until now.Important new data presented at the Annual Meeting of the British Society for Immunology (BSI) and the British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology (BSACI) Congress on 3-6 December 2002 may significant impact on management of allergic rhinitis next year and beyond. New data will be presented at the congress and discussed at a symposium which may impact on the management of relevant patients in the UK and around the world DATA AVAILABLE Wednesday 4 December 2002 SYMPOSIUM Thursday 5 December 2002 08.00 - Chairman's Introduction 08.05 - The link between allergic rhinitis and asthma. Understanding "One airway, one disease'' Prof Stephen Durham, Imperial College, London
08.30 - Clinical efficacy of Xyzal� (levocetirizine) and desloratadine and their evaluation using a controlled exposure system. Prof James Day, Queen's University, Ontario, Canada 09.00 - Questions to the Panel (1) Bousquet et al. for ARIA Initiative, Management of allergic rhinitis and its impact on asthma. A Pocket Guide for physicians and Nurses, 2001. Xyzal� is a trademark of UCB SA. Desloratidine is manufactured by Schering-Plough Ltd Travel and accommodation is available for a small number of UK journalists (on a first come, first served basis). If you are able to attend this session please contact: Elizabeth Park Ketchum Healthcare 35-41 Folgate Street LONDON E1 6BX Tel: + 44-0-20-7611-3624 Fax: + 44-0-20-7611-3850 E-mail: [email protected] |