Drugs called antihistamine are often used to treat allergy symptoms such hay fever, hives, conjunctivitis, and responses to insect bites or stings.
They may also be used as a temporary fix for sleeplessness as well as to cure nausea, motion sickness, and being ill (vomiting).
The majority of antihistamines are sold at stores and pharmacies, however some are only accessible with a prescription.
Antihistamine types
Antihistamines come in a variety of varieties.
Typically, they fall into two categories:
Antihistamines that induce sleep include promethazine, chlorphenamine (Piriton), cinnarizine, diphenhydramine, and hydroxyzine.
Non-drowsy antihistamines, such as acrivastine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, and loratadine, are less likely to induce sleep.
Additionally, they are available in a variety of forms, such as tablets, capsules, liquids, syrups, creams, lotions, gels, eyedrops, and nasal sprays.
What kind is best?
There is little evidence to support the claim that one antihistamine is superior than another in treating allergy symptoms.
Some individuals discover that some kinds suit them while others do not. To discover one that works for you, you may need to test a few different kinds.
Antihistamines that don’t make you drowsy are often the best choice since they are less likely to induce sleep. However, if your symptoms prevent you from sleeping, varieties that make you feel tired can be preferable.
If you’re not sure which medication to take since not all antihistamines are suited for everyone, ask a pharmacist for help.
Taking Antihistamines
Take your medication as directed by your doctor or pharmacist, or as detailed in the medication’s accompanying leaflet.
Knowing these things before using an antihistamine:
How to use it properly (whether eyedrops or a nasal spray), how much to take, if it should be taken with meals or drink, etc.
How much of a dosage to take – Depending on factors like your age and weight, this may change.
When to take it, how often you may take it each day, and when to take it (certain kinds should be taken before night).
How long should I take it for? Some varieties may be taken for a long period, while others are just advised for a few days.
What to do if you forget to take a dosage or overdose
Depending on the precise medication you’re taking, the advise differs. Ask a pharmacist if you are unsure how to take your medication.
Adverse Reactions to Antihistamines
Antihistamines may have negative effects, much like any medications.
Antihistamine side effects that cause drowsiness may include:
After taking these antihistamines, you may have tiredness (drowsiness), decreased coordination, response time, and judgement. Do not drive or operate equipment.
- mouth ache
- fuzzy vision
- having trouble peeing
Non-drowsy antihistamines may have the following side effects:
- headache
- mouth ache
- feeling unwell
- sleepiness, albeit this side effect is less frequent than with earlier antihistamines.
For a complete list of potential side effects and guidance on when to seek medical attention, see the medication booklet that is included with your medication.
Through the Yellow Card Scheme, you may report any negative effects you believe your medication may have had that are not desired.
Taking antihistamines when consuming food, drink, or other medications
If you are already taking any other medications, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking an antihistamine.
The possibility exists that the medications won’t mix, which might prevent them from functioning correctly or raise the possibility of unwanted effects.
Examples of medications that may be problematic when used with antihistamines include:
- antidepressants
- medications for indigestion or stomach ulcers
- Cold and cough medications with an antihistamine
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking an antihistamine, especially if it makes you drowsy, since this might increase the likelihood that it will cause you to feel sleepy.
Most antihistamines are unaffected by food or other beverages, but see the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication to be sure.
Who is allowed to use antihistamines?
Antihistamines are generally safe to take.
- However, if any of the following apply to you:
- are nursing or pregnant
- are trying to find a drug for a little youngster.
- are an elderly individual
- are using other medications
having a chronic illness such as epilepsy, heart disease, liver disease, or a disorder of the kidneys.
In certain situations, some antihistamines may not be appropriate. One that is ideal for you might be suggested by a pharmacist or doctor.
In most cases, loratadine is advised if you need to take an antihistamine while pregnant. Most of the time, it’s OK to consume loratadine or cetirizine while nursing.
Before taking a medication or administering it to a child, always read the patient information leaflet to ensure that you are able to do so safely.
Workings of Antihistamines
Antihistamines prevent the effects of histamine, a chemical, from acting on your body.
When your body recognizes anything hazardous, such as an illness, histamine is often produced. It makes the skin inflate and blood vessels enlarge, which helps to protect the body.
However, in those who have allergies, the body interprets something safe—like pollen, pet hair, or household dust—as a danger and releases histamine. Histamine triggers an allergic response that manifests as itchy, watery eyes, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and skin rashes.
If you take antihistamines before to coming into touch with the allergen, they assist prevent this from occurring. If taken later, they may lessen the intensity of the symptoms.