The effect of dimetindene on liver and kidney function in the cholestatic rat

Dimetindene (active principle of Fenistil) belongs to the group of H1-antihistamines which are used in the treatment of allergic disorders. An experimental approach was made to clarify the risk of dimetindene application during the conditions of an impaired liver function as a consequence of extrahepatic cholestasis (bile-duct ligation). Acute and subchronic treatment with dimetindene (1 and 10 mg/kg p.o., respectively) did not enhance the effect of cholestasis on the parameters of liver function (plasma bile acids, glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), alkaline phosphatase) or kidney function (creatinine, urea retention in plasma). It is concluded that the use of dimetindene in the treatment of pruritus during cholestasis is without notable risk.