Examples
Older (first-generation) over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines
|
| Semprex-D | acrivastine |
| brompheniramine maleate | |
| Chlor-Trimeton | chlorpheniramine maleate |
| Tavist-1 | clemastine fumarate |
| Benadryl | diphenhydramine |
| Vistaril | hydroxyzine |
| promethazine | |
Newer (second-generation) over-the-counter antihistamines
|
| Zyrtec | cetirizine |
| Alavert, Claritin | loratadine |
Newer (second-generation) prescription antihistamines
|
| Astelin | azelastine |
| Clarinex | desloratadine |
| Allegra | fexofenadine |
| Xyzal | levocetirizine |
| Patanase | olopatadine |
Antihistamines may be available as tablets, capsules, nasal
sprays, or liquids. You can use them alone or combined with decongestants to
treat
.
How It Works
Many symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such
as sneezing, itching, and runny nose, occur when your body releases a chemical
called histamine.
medicines block histamine and may reduce
your symptoms.
Why It Is Used
You can use antihistamines to stop
or reduce sneezing, runny nose, and watery and itchy eyes caused by an
.
How Well It Works
All of these antihistamines work
equally well to relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Antihistamines begin to provide relief in 30 minutes to 2
hours.
- Antihistamines dry up the runny nose caused by allergies, but
they usually do not clear up stuffiness.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Hives.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor if you have:
- Fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Fever.
- Unusual bleeding or bruising.
- Belly pain.
- Unusual tiredness or weakness.
Common side effects of this medicine include:
- Drowsiness.
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat.
- Stomach upset.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)