Antihistamines

About

Antihistamines are medicines often used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as hay fever, hives, conjunctivitis and reactions to insect bites or stings. They're also sometimes used to prevent motion sickness, to treat feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting), and as a short-term treatment for insomnia. Most antihistamines can be bought from pharmacies and shops, but some are only available on prescription. There are many types of antihistamine. They're usually divided into 2 main groups: antihistamines that make you feel sleepy – such as chlorphenamine (Piriton), cinnarizine, diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine and promethazine non-drowsy antihistamines that are less likely to make you feel sleepy – such as acrivastine, cetirizine, fexofenadine and loratadine They also come in several different forms – including tablets, capsules, liquids, syrups, creams, lotions, gels, eyedrops and nasal sprays. There's not much evidence to suggest any particular antihistamine is better than any other at relieving allergy symptoms. Some people find certain types work well for them and others do not. You may need to try several types to find one that works for you. Non-drowsy antihistamines are generally the best option, as they're less likely to make you feel sleepy. But types that make you feel sleepy may be better if your symptoms stop you sleeping. Ask a pharmacist for advice if you're unsure which medicine to try as not all antihistamines are suitable for everyone. Take your medicine as advised by the pharmacist or doctor, or as described in the leaflet that comes with it. Before taking an antihistamine, you should know: how to take it – including whether it needs to be taken with water or food, or how to use it correctly (if eyedrops or a nasal spray) how much to take (the dose) – this can vary depending on things such as your age and weight when to take it – including how many times a day you can take it and when to take it (some types should be taken before bedtime) how lo