Dealing with allergies unexpectedly, especially on days when you shouldn’t even be thinking about them, can be high-key stressful or even annoying. The good news is that there are ways to address these allergies ASAP so you can return to your normal routine and slay your tasks as per usual.
Being prepared against allergies with the right medicines that target them is definitely a royal move. Enter antihistamines of various types and doses that understand the assignment.
Continue reading to learn how antihistamines work in your body to target the causes of allergies, as well as other ways to take these medicines properly and effectively.
What Are Antihistamines?
Antihistamines are a type of medicine mainly used to target a chemical called histamine. The body’s immune system releases this when it encounters allergens like pollen, dust, animal fur, animal bites, mold, or food.
After it’s released, histamine binds to H-1 receptors in cells scattered throughout the body. This process can then cause allergy symptoms and a whole lot of discomfort.
So how do antihistamines reduce the effects of these allergies, you ask? According to one theory, these medicines act as “inverse agonists” on cells with histamine receptors by producing an opposite effect. Think of the antihistamine as a “switch” that helps gradually lessen the effects of histamine on the body.
Take Note of Antihistamines’ Uses
Antihistamines are mainly recommended to address common allergy symptoms like nasal inflammation (common among people with allergic rhinitis), sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, hives, skin itching, rashes, and nausea. These medicines can be taken daily, as needed when allergies strike or before known exposure to allergens. However, some antihistamines may aid in alleviating health issues like vertigo, headaches, Parkinson’s disease (mainly to reduce tremors and stiffness), anorexia, and some forms of bone pain too.
Antihistamines are usually readily available for purchase over-the-counter (OTC) in tablet form. In some cases though, you can also find antihistamine gel capsules, nasal sprays, and eye drops. You may also spot antihistamine syrups that may be given to kids struggling with allergies.
Prescription antihistamines may also be recommended by a doctor to someone who may need a higher dosage, especially if OTC meds won’t cut it.
In some cases, antihistamines can be given via intravenous (IV) or intramuscular administration (IM) to patients confined in hospitals too. These methods can help address specific conditions that may arise when someone is admitted.
The Lowdown on Two Generations of Antihistamines
Much like a family, antihistamines can be divided into two “generations” that have key differences when it comes to addressing symptoms and resulting side effects:
• First-generation antihistamines: Medicines in this class of antihistamines are known to “bind” to central and peripheral histamine-1 receptors. First generation antihistamines can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and into the central nervous system (CNS). This action eventually causes side effects like drowsiness. Examples of first-generation antihistamines include chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, and hydroxine.
• Second-generation antihistamines: This type of antihistamine only binds to peripheral histamine-1 receptors and doesn’t have the same freedom as first generation antihistamines to cross the blood-brain barrier. This leads to fewer instances of sleepiness and drowsiness, and a lower risk of interaction with other drugs. In fact, some researchers and health experts have said that this generation of antihistamines is “safer” compared to the first. Second generation antihistamines that you may be prescribed include loratadine and cetirizine.
Hold Up — Here Are Some Final Reminders When Taking Antihistamines Does this mean you should go ahead and take second-generation antihistamines when you have allergy symptoms? Not really — chill first for a second. If you're unsure about the type and dose of antihistamine you should take for allergic reactions, it's best to consult your doctor first.
Plus, remember these tips in order that’ll help you safely take antihistamines and target allergies swiftly.
1. Watch out for side effects: As a whole, antihistamines may cause side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, or confusion, to name a few. Should these side effects happen, take note of these and mention them to your doctor right away.
2. Be wary if you have existing health problems: You may need to talk to a doctor if you have been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, kidney or liver disease, bladder obstruction/s, or glaucoma. Some antihistamines are known to interact with medicines, especially some that are needed for other health issues.
3. Talk to your OB-GYN if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: If you deal with allergies while pregnant or breastfeeding, seek the clearance of your OB-GYN first before taking an antihistamine. Some antihistamines, especially in high doses, may raise the risk of birth defects in babies and be passed on to breast milk.
4. Remember how much and when to take antihistamines: This step can go a long way as it may help prevent an overdose, interactions with other medicines, and instances of reduced skills in driving and operating machinery due to some side effects.
Act on Allergies With This Reliable Non-Drowsy Antihistamine! (vs. first-generation antihistamines and cetirizine)
Now you know what the roles of antihistamines are in an allergic reaction, be ready against allergies in case they strike anytime, anywhere. Ask your doctor about Non Drowsy Loratadine (Allerta®) Tablet today (vs. first-generation antihistamines and cetirizine.)
Make sure this second-generation antihistamine is always in your bag or in your home for quick relief against allergic rhinitis symptoms like sneezing and runny and itchy nose, rashes, and itchy skin. In most instances, you can get back to slaying your tasks ASAP as Loratadine (Allerta®) Tablet gives you allergy relief and is less likely to cause dizziness and drowsiness (compared to Cetirizine and other first generation antihistamines.)
There’s a saying that goes “Knowledge is power” — and this can be applicable for you if you’re constantly dealing with allergy symptoms. Now that you know how and why allergies strike, it definitely wouldn’t hurt to be one step ahead with the help of Loratadine (Allerta®) that’s available online and in leading drugstores nationwide.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
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