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Severe pruritus may be an idiopathic phenomenon or associated with advanced systemic disease. It is one of the most distressing and difficult to treat symptoms. Uncontrolled studies have suggested that, in patients experiencing severe pruritus, paroxetine appeared to have a rapid anti-pruritic effect. This study was a prospective double-blind, randomized within patient comparison of paroxetine and placebo. The intensity of pruritus was measured subjectively with a numerical analogue scale. The primary endpoint of the trial was the mean pruritus score, measured for seven days after randomization and after cross-over. The secondary endpoint was individual global response to the treatment. Response was defined as at least 50% reduction of intensity of pruritus in the last three days of the treatment period vs. baseline. Adverse effects and patient satisfaction and preferences were also recorded. Twenty-six patients …