Fexofenadine Versus Gabapentin for Uremic Pruritus in Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Clinical Study to Compare The Safety and Possible Efficacy of Fexofenadine Versus Gabapentin for Uremic Pruritus in Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Several studies investigated the effectiveness of Gabapentin in Uremic Pruritus (UP). No previous studies investigated the use of fexofenadine in UP. The aim of this trial is to assess the safety and possible efficacy of fexofenadine in patients with UP.

A randomized controlled single center parallel study, that will recruit 60 participants with end stage renal disease (ESRD) on regular hemodialysis (RHD) with uremic pruritus (UP). Patients will be randomized to either Fexofenadine (60 mg orally once daily), or Gabapentin (100 mg orally after each dialysis session, "thrice weekly", with titration according to response to 100 mg orally once daily). Participants will continue treatment for 3 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years old.
• ESRD on regular hemodialysis.
• Moderate and severe Uremic Pruritus as assessed by Visual Analogue Scale.
• Able to provide an informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age < 18 years old.
• Patients not on regular hemodialysis.
• Pruritus due to other cause.
• Cancer patients.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Patients with history of substance abuse.
• Patients with myasthenia gravis.
• Patients who refuse or are unable to provide an informed consent.