From the Research
Antihistamines for Interstitial Cystitis
- Antihistamines have been used as a treatment option for interstitial cystitis (IC) 1, 2, 3, 4.
- Studies suggest that antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine, can be effective in relieving symptoms of IC when used alone or in combination with other medications 2, 5.
- Multimodal therapy, including oral antihistamines, has shown benefit in addressing the main components of IC, including a dysfunctional urothelium, mast cell activation, and neural upregulation 2.
- Antihistamines are often used in conjunction with other oral agents, such as tricyclic antidepressants and bladder surface mucin analogues, to improve efficacy and time to response 4.
Treatment Approaches
- Treatment of IC typically involves a combination of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches 1, 3.
- Oral pharmacotherapies, including antihistamines, are commonly used to target the known pathophysiology of IC 4.
- Intravesical therapy is usually used as second-line treatment, and may include agents such as lidocaine and heparin 2.
- Patient education and support are critical in managing this complex but treatable disorder 2, 3.