Comparing the Risk of Infusion-Related Reactions and Tolerability in Patients Given Cetirizine or Diphenhydramine Prior to Ocrelizumab Infusion (PRECEPT).
Publication Title
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-19-2024
Keywords
oregon; portland; Humans; Diphenhydramine; Cetirizine; Female; Male; Adult; Middle Aged; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; Infusions, Intravenous; Multiple Sclerosis; infusion reactions; multiple sclerosis; ocrelizumab; patient reported outcomes; pre-medication
Abstract
Background: Ocrelizumab is an effective medication for multiple sclerosis. However, infusion-related reactions (IRRs) are a concern for patients and may lead to discontinuation of ocrelizumab. To minimize IRRs, pre-medications are administered. However, from our experience, these medications, especially diphenhydramine, can cause marked drowsiness. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate whether cetirizine is non-inferior to diphenhydramine in limiting the proportion and severity of reactions from ocrelizumab infusions. Methods: Twenty participants were serially randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive 10 mg of cetirizine or 25 mg of diphenhydramine orally prior to their first three ocrelizumab infusions. Results: The rate of IRRs in this study was similar across both treatment groups with no increase in the risk of severity, and no grade 3 IRRs. Further, patients receiving cetirizine experienced a reduction in fatigue. While there was not a significant difference in global satisfaction, this score increased over time in the cetirizine arm while it remained unchanged in the diphenhydramine arm. Conclusions: Overall, our results suggest that cetirizine does not increase the risk of infusion-related reactions compared to diphenhydramine.
Area of Special Interest
Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)
Specialty/Research Institute
Neurosciences
Specialty/Research Institute
Pharmacy
DOI
10.3390/medicina60040659
