Action antihistamines

Many antihistamines are available in pharmacies without a prescription. Antihistamines are used to relieve symptoms and prevent allergic diseases. Today, the most common are considered antihistamines first and second generation - both types of antihistamines are effective in treating the symptoms of allergic diseases core. First generation antihistamines in some cases, part of the drug from colds.

Under the influence of the body begins the process of allergen release histamine, is attached to the walls of the cells and causes cell swelling and fluid leakage. As a result of histamine observed the characteristic symptoms of an allergic reaction - itching, runny nose, watery eyes. Antihistamines block the release of histamine and symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Moreover, first-generation antihistamines act on the individual parts of the brain that control the feeling of nausea and vomiting - which is why these drugs often help prevent so-called motion sickness. Since the first-generation antihistamines characterized by pronounced sedative effects, these drugs are sometimes used to treat sleep disorders Dreams: how to understand our dreams   (insomnia).

The major side effects of antihistamines

As a rule, intermittent reception antihistamines healthy individuals show no adverse effects. However, in some cases - such as the elderly or certain health problems - reception antihistamines may be accompanied by a number of side effects.

The main side effect of antihistamines first generation - increased sleepiness, impaired concentration and attention. That is why the reception of the first generation anti-histamines is not recommended in situations requiring high concentrations - for example, if necessary driving. In addition, the number of major side effects of antihistamines include abdominal pain Abdominal pain: Types and Symptoms   and headache Headache: Causes and Complications . The risk of side effects in the second generation antihistamines are much lower.

Interaction with other antihistamine medicines

Antihistamines and the first and second generations may interact with certain medical preparatmi, including:

• Sedatives
• Hypnotics
• Muscle relaxants

In some cases, part of antihistamines decongestants and analgesics, as well as the composition cures colds. That is why before the medication is recommended to pay attention to their composition, in order to avoid the risk of an overdose of antihistamine. The first such precautions deal with first generation antihistamines - second-generation antihistamines are much less interact with other medications.

Contraindications

In some cases, receiving first-generation antihistamines are not recommended. Among them:

• Glaucoma
• Enlarged prostate and difficulty urinating
• Diseases of the respiratory tract - asthma, chronic bronchitis Bronchitis - protection if the body has malfunctioned Emphysema
• Thyroid disease
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system
• High blood pressure

In the case of liver or kidney disease before taking the second generation antihistamines should consult a doctor.

The use of antihistamines

Many antihistamines are available in pharmacies without a prescription - including the first-generation antihistamines (brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, clemastine, diphenhydramine) and second-generation antihistamines (loratadine). Loratadine - one of the few available without a prescription antihistamines do not cause drowsiness.

Most drugs of second-generation antihistamines, does not have a pronounced sedation, released only by prescription - including cetirizine (brand name Zyrtec), desloratadine (brand name Clarinex), and fexofenadine (brand name Allegra). These antihistamines are generally do not cause side effects.

For the treatment of certain specific symptoms of allergic diseases - for example, rhinitis, pruritus sinuses - applicable antihistaminic nasal sprays (one of the most common spray - azelastine (tradename Astelin)).

Action antihistamines

Antihistamines block the release of histamine, which causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction Allergic reactions: how to understand why you tickle in the throat . Especially effective antihistamines if taken regularly during the peak allergy season.

Contraindications

Receiving antihistamines is not recommended if there is an allergy to the drug or its components. In addition, antihistamines can interact with a number of other medications, so taking antihistamines are not recommended in the following cases:

• With regular use of antidepressants - monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• When glaucoma uzkouglovoy
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to take antihistamines

Antihistamines are available in various forms - in the form of tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, drops, nasal sprays. The dosage and frequency of antihistamine drug depends on the type and specificity of allergic disease. With regular use of antihistamines Antihistamines: how to neutralize the negative effects of histamine?   at the same time is not recommended to use other drugs that cause drowsiness - sleeping pills, tranquilizers, sedatives Sedatives - take valerian and be happy? . In addition, alcohol is not recommended, sedative effect of antihistamines. For fourteen days before you start taking antihistamines can not be used antidepressants - MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine sulfate (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate)). Before you start regular intake of antihistamines is best to consult with your doctor about possible interactions with other antihistamine medications.

Side effects of antihistamines

Although antihistamines are considered the most safe mode of allergy medications, antihistamines, many (especially first-generation drugs) may cause the following side effects:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty urinating
• Violation of
• Deterioration of concentration and attention