How Do Second Generation Antihistamines Work?

antihistamines_secondgeneration

How They Work
- HOW DO SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES WORK?
Uses
- HOW ARE SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES USED?
Side Effects
- WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS OF SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES?
Drug Names
- WHAT ARE NAMES OF SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES?

HOW DO SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES WORK?

Second-generation antihistamines are a type of antihistamines that are used for treating allergies and itching.

They work by binding to the histamine receptors in the brain and spinal cord and blocking the release of histamine. Excess release of histamine can cause the following allergic reactions:

Constriction of the bronchial tube
Contraction of smooth muscles
Swelling
Low blood pressure
Depression of the central nervous system
Irregular heart rate

Thus, antihistamines reduce allergic symptoms by preventing the release of histamine. Second-generation antihistamines were the second type of antihistamines to be approved by the FDA because they are considered to be safer than first-generation antihistamines. These drugs fail to cross the blood-brain barrier and therefore do not cause drowsiness caused by first-generation antihistamines.

HOW ARE SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES USED?

Second-generation antihistamines are used for treating:

Allergic reactions
Itchy skin
Dermatologic conditions

WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS OF SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES?

Second-generation antihistamines can cause the following side effects:

Sleepiness
Headache
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Malaise
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Drowsiness
Fussiness
Hallucinations
Low blood pressure
Tremors
Tongue discoloration
Irritability
Upper respiratory tract infection
Cough
Redness
Rash

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.