An antihistamine is any of a group of substances that block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions (see allergy). Antihistamines are used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and hives (urticaria) and other rashes. They are sometimes used in cough and cold remedies because they dry up a runny nose and suppress the nerve centers in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. They are also used in antiemetic drugs, because they suppress the vomiting reflex.

 

Antihistamines are usually taken or administered orally but may be given by injection in an emergency to aid in treating anaphylactic shock (a life-threatening allergic reaction).

 

Types of antihistamine

 

Short-acting antihistamines are generally available over-the-counter. They help relieve mild to moderate symptoms but may cause drowsiness. In addition, the short-acting antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can affect a child's learning abilities. Loratadine (Claritin) does not tend to cause drowsiness or affect learning in children.

Longer-acting antihistamines require a prescription. They usually do not interfere with learning. Examples of longer-acting antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra) and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Overall, they cause less drowsiness than other medicines, but cetirizine may cause drowsiness in some people.

 

How antihistamines work

Antihistamines block the effect of histamine on tissues such as the skin, eyes, and nose. Without treatment, histamine dilates (widens) capillaries, resulting in redness and swelling of the surrounding tissue due to the leakage of fluid from the circulation. Antihistamines also prevent histamine from irritating nerve fibers, which would otherwise cause itching.