What Are Antihistamines

Sniffling, sneezing, headaches, itchy eyes, runny nose, these are some of the symptoms many suffer every year when allergy season rolls around and casts misery among the masses. Pollen, Blossoms, Ragweed, Pollution, Pet Dander are all major contributors of our pain and suffering, some symptoms are certainly more severe then others and can trigger Asthma attacks better known as (Allergic Asthma), Sinus infection (Sinusitis) which is brought on by Hay Fever allergies, Hives (Urticaria), Poison Ivy and Plant , Bee Sting , Mold , latex , Pet , Sun , Shellfish , Eye (Conjunctivitis), Nut , Egg, Fish, Soy, Sun, Wheat, Aspirin, Milk, Cosmetic,and Drug allergies. All are treated with some type of Antihistamine drug to alleviate the effect of what the allergen does to our system.

Many types of drug Antihistamines are available without prescription and can be purchased over-the counter such as Chlor-Trimenton (Chlorphenaramine), Benadryl ( diphenhydramine), Claritin ( Antihistamine Loratadine), Dimetapp ( Bromphen Diemtane, Nasahist). Always read the recommendation of dosage before using and do not ever exceed the amount allowed.

Common prescribed medications are less likely to cause adverse side effects such as Zyrtec (cetirizine) , we can also purchase this over-the counter. Clarinex ( desloratadine) and Allegra ( fexofenadine). There are also several prescribed nasal allergy sprays that can be prescribed by a medical doctor to treat allergies one of the most popular prescribed medication is Astelin ( azelastine) for the severe sufferer of allergies.

How they work: Antihistamines compete against the histamines for receptor sites, when the Antihistamine makes its home at the histamine receptor sites, they prevent the histamine from causing allergic symptoms. All Antihistamines are most effective when taken continuously during allergy season.

Who should not use: Women who are breastfeeding, Individuals who are currently using IMAO( mono-amine oxidase inhibitor), or individuals who have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Forms: Antihistamines comes in tablet form, capsule form. chewable table and liquid. How often a person should take any type of Antihistamine is determined by characteristics and dosage.

Avoid taking any other drugs that can cause drowsiness such as alcohol, tranquilizers, sedatives or any type of sleep aids. Before interacting any other drugs with any other medication it is always advised that you contact a physician or pharmacist.

Pharmaceutical terminology can be confusing, however understand the common terms and the pharmaceutical terms allows you to understand what is being prescribed and if any emergency should occur, utilizing the information could be knowledge needed under certain circumstances. Always contact a physician before using any type of Antihistamines.

copyright 2009