Strontium nitrate decreased histamine-induced itch magnitude and duration in man.

H Zhai, W Hannon, G S Hahn, R A Harper, A Pelosi, H I Maibach

Index: Dermatology 200(3) , 244-6, (2000)

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Abstract

Previous studies have demonstrated that strontium salts have a potent and broad ability to suppress sensory irritation.To ascertain the possible antipruritic effects of topical strontium salts, we conducted a double-blind randomized study to evaluate the effect of 20% strontium nitrate on itch magnitude (intensity) and duration.In 8 human subjects, strontium nitrate was applied to the volar forearm and vehicle control to the contralateral volar forearm for 30 min; both substances were reapplied for an additional 5 min. Itch was then experimentally induced by intradermal injection of histamine. Itch magnitude was rated each minute for the first 20 min using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Itch duration in minutes was also recorded.Strontium nitrate, in comparison to its vehicle control, significantly shortened itch duration from 28.1+/-5.4 min (mean +/- SEM) to 18.5+/-4.2 min (p<0.01) and reduced itch magnitude at time points 12-20 min and overall (p<0.05).Strontium nitrate may act as a topical antipruritic agent in reducing histamine-mediated itch.Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.