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Drug treatment of pruritus in liver diseases

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Vinod Hegade, Dr Stuart Kendrick, Professor David Jones

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Abstract

Pruritus (itch) is a common complication of cholestatic liver diseases (CLD). It can be a distressing and debilitating symptom, causing significant impairment in quality of life. Treatment of pruritus in liver diseases can be challenging and requires specific management with early initiation and a step-wise approach using specific drugs. Clinical trials are ongoing with novel agents that demonstrate potential efficacy. Patients with cholestatic pruritus are likely to present to a variety of clinicians who would benefit from medical awareness of available treatment options. In this review, we outline the pharmaceutical agents currently used to treat cholestatic pruritus and provide the evidence base for targeted symptom control of itch in liver diseases. We also highlight recent developments in the pathophysiology of cholestatic pruritus and the emerging novel therapies.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Hegade VS, Kendrick SFW, Jones DEJ

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Clinical Medicine

Year: 2015

Volume: 15

Issue: 4

Pages: 351-357

Print publication date: 01/08/2015

Acceptance date: 01/01/1900

ISSN (print): 1470-2118

ISSN (electronic): 1473-4893

Publisher: Royal College of Physicians

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.7861/clinmedicine.15-4-351

DOI: 10.7861/clinmedicine.15-4-351

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