Antihistamine, what it is used for?

The antihistamines are drugs used to treat various conditions, often related to allergies or, for example, hay fever. But what are the most frequent uses?

• symptoms of different types of allergies (to dust mites; hay fever or allergic rhinitis; food)
• urticaria
• conjunctivitis
• reactions to insect bites
• motion sickness
• As a treatment for people suffering from insomnia

Used extensively in allergies

However, they are mostly used during the warm season when people mainly start suffering from allergies (to pollen, insects or dust).

The mechanism of action of these drugs is based on blocking histamine, the substance released by the cells of the immune system when the body comes into contact with the allergen to which it is hypersensitive.

It is precisely histamine that triggers the typical symptoms of allergic reactions: swelling of the tissues of the nose, increased tearing of the eyes, itching, and sometimes even rashes.

Antihistamines can be used in the form of tablets, capsules, solutions, nasal spray, eye drops and cream. In some cases, these are over-the-counter drugs that can be purchased without a prescription, while other times they are required.

However, it is recommended that you always seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist if you think you are dealing with allergy symptoms, so that you can purchase the most appropriate medication and get guidance on when and how to take it.

Antihistamines are usually classified into two main categories: