Potent antidotes developed to counter chemicals called histamines released by your body, antihistamines have proven efficacy in battling allergies. Antihistamines have been shown to work in hay fever, itch and itchy rashes, including urticaria or hives, insect bites and stings, nasal and other allergies. For instance, levocetirizine and desloratidine are used to relieve runny nose, sneezing and redness; itching and tearing of the eyes caused by hay fever; seasonal allergies; and allergies to other substances, such as dust mites, animal dander and mold. Symptoms of hives, including itching and rash, also respond well.
What to Look for
You can get what you need either as a tablet, capsule or liquid. In severe allergic reaction, antihistamines can be injected as well. In a 2007 study in the Allergologia et Immunopathologia, findings indicated that patients found it difficult to swallow tablets or capsules. Instead, 84 percent of the 7,686 patients who participated in the survey preferred to take an antihistamine in a fast-dissolving tablet (FDT) formulation. More than 80 percent like its flavor and aftertaste. More than 90 percent recognized the importance of being able to take the drug at any time or place. In brief, better compliance was the end result.
Also, look for new generation of antihistamine drugs (desloratadine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine) to avoid any risk of heart rhythm problems or drowsiness. According to a 2008 study in the British Journal of Pharmacology, levocetirizine suppressed the skin allergic reactions with a higher potency than desloratadine, especially the allergen-induced wheal and flare response.
Common Pitfalls
Though antihistamines act well against allergies, you may want to watch out for any untoward effects, as well. It may not be a good idea to drive right after you take them--drowsiness can be risky. They also react with alcohol, so a drink or two is best avoided. Of course, because of their sleep-inducing effect, sometimes patients suffering from irritation or itch can get a good night's sleep. You should contact your physician if you experience any of the following side effects: Headache, upset stomach, dizziness, sore throat, dry mouth, muscle pain, extreme tiredness or painful menstruation. You should think twice if you are allergic to desloratadine, loratadine or any other medications. Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding, or if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
A 2007 study in the Journal of Investigational Allergology and Clinical Immunology suggests an individualized approach to patient treatment. It is still not clear whether antihistamines should be administered on a continual basis or upon demand, although the effect of antihistamines, especially the second-generation drugs, was found greater if taken continuously than when given on demand. Similarly, it might improve your quality of life aside from being cost-effective if treated on a continuous basis.
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