The results of a systematic review and meta-analysis underscored the potential of the combination of compound glycyrrhizin with second-generation nonsedated antihistamine as a promising therapeutic option for individuals suffering from chronic urticaria. The study, led by a team of dedicated scientists, aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of a novel treatment approach combining compound glycyrrhizin with second-generation nonsedated antihistamine for debilitating dermatologic conditions.

Through rigorous analysis of 24 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) sourced from nine databases, researchers investigated differences in treatment outcomes between combination therapy and conventional antihistamine monotherapy. Two reviewers conducted an independent assessment of bias risk utilizing the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. The primary focus was on determining the total efficiency rate, while secondary objectives encompassed evaluating the rates of recurrence, adverse events, and cure.

Statistical analyses were performed utilizing Review Manager 5.4 and Stata17 software packages. Substantial variances were observed in the rates of overall effectiveness (n=2649, Risk ratio [RR] = 1.36, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.30–1.43, p < 0.00001), cure (n=2649, RR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.42–1.66, p < 0.00001), and recurrence (n=446, RR = 0.34, 95%CI: 0.20–0.58, p < 0.00001) when comparing the combined use of compound glycyrrhizin with non-sedating antihistamine to antihistamine monotherapy.

No severe adverse events were documented. Furthermore, the study found that the incidence of adverse events (n = 2317, RR = 0.76, 95% CI:0.59–0.97, p = 0.03) connected with the novel treatment was comparable to that of standard antihistamine monotherapy, indicating a favorable safety profile. In conclusion, the combination therapy exhibited superiority to antihistamine monotherapy in terms of total efficiency rate, cure rate, and recurrence rate.