Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat allergies and allergic reactions. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body in response to an allergen. Antihistamines can help to relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. In this article, we will explore the types of antihistamines, their uses, and potential side effects.

Histamine

Types of Antihistamines

There are two main types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, are older drugs that can cause drowsiness and other side effects. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine and cetirizine, are newer drugs that are less likely to cause drowsiness and other side effects.

Uses

Antihistamines are used to treat a variety of allergic reactions, including:
Hay fever: Antihistamines can help to relieve symptoms of hay fever, such as sneezing, itching, and congestion.
Hives: Antihistamines can help to relieve the itching and swelling associated with hives.
Allergic reactions: Antihistamines can be used to treat allergic reactions to foods, medications, or other substances.
Eczema: Antihistamines can help to relieve the itching associated with eczema.

Side Effects

While antihistamines are generally safe and effective, they can cause side effects in some people. Some common side effects of antihistamines include:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Nausea
Headache
Blurred vision
Constipation
Difficulty urinating

Precautions

Antihistamines should be used with caution in certain populations, such as:
Pregnant women: Some antihistamines can cross the placenta and may cause harm to the developing fetus.
Breastfeeding women: Some antihistamines can pass into breast milk and may cause harm to the nursing infant.
Older adults: Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of antihistamines.
Children: Antihistamines should be used with caution in children, as they can cause drowsiness and other side effects.

Also see

This is a short summary article. For quality control, we do not encourage or allow strangers to edit the content.