Antihistamine update.

ABSTRACT

Antihistamines are a diverse group of drugs, each possessing the ability to inhibit various actions of histamine. Because they act principally through competitive inhibition of the histamine receptor, they are helpful as a means of preventing rather than reversing these actions. As a result of a resurgence of interest in antihistamine therapy during the past decade, a new class of H1 blockers, clinically devoid of sedative and anticholinergic effects, has evolved. Thus, the choice of antihistamine can now be based on the side effects profile as well as the clinical profile. As we continue to develop a better understanding of these newer agents, we will be able to select more rationally the antihistaminic agent most appropriate to the specific disorder. Used judiciously, the antihistamines available today have a broad application of therapeutic uses, with few significant side effects.