Antihistamine Drugs: Mechanism, Types, and Side Effects

Study Notes

Antihistamine drugs are a type of medication used to treat allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance produced by the body that can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes[5). There are two types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation. This article will provide an in-d

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ive review of the topic, focusing on the subtopics: Mechanism of action, Types of anti-histamine drugs, Side effects and precautions, and Clinical applications.

Mechanism of action: Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance produced by the body that can cause allergy symptoms. Histamine inter

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es with receptors in the body, and antihistamines bind to these receptors, preventing histamine from binding and therefore blocking its effects[5).

Types of anti-histamine drugs:

First-generation antihistamines: These drugs are less effective than second-generation antihistamines and have more side effects, particularly central nervous system and anti-cholinergic effects[1).
Second-generation antihistamines: These drugs are more effective and have a better side effect

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Side effects and precautions: Antihistamines can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and blurry vision[4). They should be used with care in certain population

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s, such as children under 4 years of

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Description

Explore the mechanism of action, different types, side effects, and precautions of antihistamine drugs in this informative article. Learn about how these medications work, the differences between first-generation and second-generation antihistamines, as well as the potential side effects and precautions for usage.