Many home first-aid kits contain medicines, the purpose and mechanism of action of which people do not understand. Antihistamines also belong to such drugs. Most allergy sufferers choose their own medicines, calculate the dosage and course of therapy, without consulting a specialist.
Antihistamines - what are they in simple terms?
The term is often misinterpreted. Many people think that these are just drugs for allergies, but they are intended to treat other diseases as well. Antihistamines are a group of medicines that block the immune response to external stimuli. These include not only allergens, but also viruses, fungi and bacteria (infectious agents), toxins. The medications in question prevent the occurrence of:
- swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat;
- redness, blisters on the skin;
- itching;
- excessive secretion of gastric juice;
- narrowing of blood vessels;
- muscle spasms;
- swelling.
How do antihistamines work?
The main protective role in the human body is played by leukocytes or white blood cells. There are several types of them, one of the most important is mast cells. After maturation, they circulate through the bloodstream and integrate into connective tissues, becoming part of the immune system. When hazardous substances enter the body, mast cells release histamine. It is a chemical essential for the regulation of digestive processes, oxygen metabolism, and blood circulation. Its excess leads to allergic reactions.
In order for histamine to provoke negative symptoms, it must be absorbed by the body. For this, there are special H1 receptors located in the inner lining of blood vessels, smooth muscle cells and the nervous system. How antihistamines work: The active ingredients in these medicines trick the H1 receptors. Their structure and structure is very similar to the substance under consideration. Medicines compete with histamine and are absorbed by receptors instead of it, without causing allergic reactions.
As a result, the chemical that provokes unwanted symptoms remains inactive in the blood and is later excreted naturally. The antihistamine effect depends on how many H1 receptors the drug has been able to block. For this reason, it is important to start treatment as soon as the first allergy symptoms appear.
The duration of therapy depends on the generation of the drug and the severity of pathological signs. How long to take antihistamines is up to the doctor to decide. Some drugs can be used for no more than 6-7 days, modern pharmacological agents of the latest generation are less toxic, so they can be used for 1 year. It is important to consult a specialist before taking it. Antihistamines can build up in the body and cause poisoning. Some people subsequently become allergic to these medicines.
How often can antihistamines be taken?
Most of the manufacturers of the described products release them in a convenient dosage, which involves the use of only 1 time per day. The question of how to take antihistamines, depending on the frequency of occurrence of negative clinical manifestations, is decided with the doctor. The presented group of medicines refers to symptomatic methods of therapy. They must be used whenever signs of illness appear.
New antihistamines can also be used as prophylaxis. If contact with the allergen definitely cannot be avoided (poplar fluff, ragweed flowering, etc.), you should use the medicine in advance. Taking antihistamines first will not only alleviate negative symptoms, but eliminate their appearance. The H1 receptors will already be blocked when the immune system tries to initiate a defense response.
Antihistamines - list
The very first drug of this group was synthesized in 1942 (Fenbenzamine). From that moment on, a massive study of substances capable of blocking H1 receptors began. To date, there are 4 generations of antihistamines. Early drug options are rarely used due to unwanted side effects and toxic effects on the body. Modern medicines are characterized by maximum safety and quick results.
1st generation antihistamines - list
This type of pharmacological agent has a short-term effect (up to 8 hours), can be addictive, sometimes it provokes poisoning. Antihistamines of the 1st generation remain popular only because of their low cost and pronounced sedative (sedative) effect. Names:
- Daedalon;
- Bicarfen;
- Suprastin;
- Tavegil;
- Diazolin;
- Clemastine;
- Diprazine;
- Loredix;
- Pipolfen;
- Setastin;
- Dimebon;
- Cyproheptadine;
- Fenkarol;
- Peritol;
- Quifenadine;
- Dimetindene;
- other.
2nd generation antihistamines - list
35 years later, the first H1 receptor blocker without sedation and toxic effects on the body was released. Unlike their predecessors, 2nd generation antihistamines work much longer (12-24 hours), do not cause addiction and do not depend on food and alcohol intake. They provoke fewer dangerous side effects and do not block other receptors in tissues and blood vessels. New generation antihistamines - list:
- Taldan;
- Astemizole;
- Terfenadine;
- Bronal;
- Allergodil;
- Fexofenadine;
- Rupafin;
- Trexil;
- Loratadine;
- Histadil;
- Zyrtec;
- Ebastine;
- Astemisan;
- Clarisens;
- Histalong;
- Cetrin;
- Semprex;
- Kestin;
- Acrivastin;
- Gismanal;
- Cetirizine;
- Levocabastine;
- Azelastine;
- Histimet;
- Lorahexal;
- Claridol;
- Rupatadine;
- Lomilan and analogues.
Antihistamines 3rd generation
Based on previous drugs, scientists have obtained stereoisomers and metabolites (derivatives). At first, these antihistamines were marketed as a new subgroup of medicines, or 3rd generation:
- Glenzet;
- Ksizal;
- Ceser;
- Suprastinex;
- Fexofast;
- Zodak Express;
- L-Cet;
- Loratek;
- Feksadin;
- Erius;
- Desal;
- NeoClaritin;
- Lordestine;
- Telfast;
- Fexofen;
- Allegra.
Later, this classification caused controversy and controversy in the scientific community. To make a final decision on the listed funds, a group of experts was assembled for independent clinical trials. According to the evaluation criteria, third-generation allergy drugs should not affect the functioning of the central nervous system, produce a toxic effect on the heart, liver and blood vessels, and interact with other medications. According to the research results, none of the indicated drugs meets these requirements.
Antihistamines 4 generations - list
Some sources refer to Telfast, Suprastinex and Erius to this type of pharmacological agent, but this is an erroneous statement. Antihistamines of the 4th generation have not yet been developed, as well as the third. There are only improved forms and derivatives of the previous versions of medicines. The most modern drugs are still 2 generations.
The selection of funds from the described group should be carried out by a specialist. Some people are better off with 1st generation allergy medications due to the need for sedation; others do not. Similarly, the doctor recommends the form of release of the medication, depending on the symptoms present. Systemic drugs are prescribed with pronounced signs of the disease, in other cases, local remedies can be dispensed with.
Antihistamine tablets
Oral medications are necessary for the rapid relief of clinical manifestations of pathology that affect several body systems. Internal antihistamines begin to act within an hour and effectively relieve swelling of the throat and other mucous membranes, relieve runny nose, lacrimation and skin symptoms of the disease.
Effective and safe allergy pills:
- Fexofen;
- Alersis;
- Tsetrilev;
- Altiva;
- Rolinoz;
- Telfast;
- Amertil;
- Eden;
- Fexofast;
- Cetrin;
- Allergomax;
- Zodak;
- Tigofast;
- Allertek;
- Cetrinal;
- Eridez;
- Trexil Neo;
- Zilola;
- L-Cet;
- Alerzin;
- Glenzet;
- Ksizal;
- Aleron Neo;
- Lorddes;
- Erius;
- Allergostop;
- Fribris and others.
Antihistamine drops
In this dosage form, both local and systemic drugs are produced. Allergy drops for oral administration;
- Zyrtec;
- Desal;
- Fenistil;
- Zodak;
- Ksizal;
- Parlazin;
- Backorder;
- Allergonix and analogues.
Topical antihistamines for the nose:
- Tizine Allergy;
- Allergodil;
- Lekrolin;
- Cromohexal;
- Sanorin Anallergin;
- Vibrocil and others.
If you bloom in spring with flowers, this urgently needs to be dealt with ...
Currently, allergic diseases are the scourge of the 21st century. The number of people suffering from this disease is growing every year. The most unpleasant thing in this situation is that young children are most susceptible to negative reactions to certain substances. Based on this, nursing mothers should not eat many foods until the baby's body reaches a certain degree of maturity.
There are also enough people with allergies among the adult population.
How to deal with pollen, cat hair or citrus intolerance? The ideal option is to eliminate the allergen. That is, to exclude contact with what causes an allergic reaction.
And if this is not possible?
It was this question that served as a prerequisite for active research and the creation of the most effective and safe antiallergic drugs. What drugs are most effective in the difficult matter of dealing with an allergic reaction?
To choose the right medicine, you should know the nature of the development of an allergic reaction. Itching, sneezing, skin redness, choking are all symptoms caused by a substance called histamine. To eliminate an allergic reaction, it is necessary to deprive it of the ability to act in the body, in other words, to block it.
Antihistamines are capable of this.
We present to your attention a list of the most effective and popular medicines, from which you can choose what is most suitable for you.
Attention! Our rating is for you if you were bitten by a harmful insect, or you ate an exotic fruit for breakfast, or sneeze from poplar fluff ... That is, if your allergy is an unpleasant episode, and not a chronic disease. Otherwise, only a doctor should prescribe treatment. And further. All the drugs listed here have contraindications, before buying, be sure to read the instructions and contraindications for use in detail - what if the chosen remedy is absolutely not suitable for you?
Rating of the best allergy remedies
Exclusive of its kind - Cetrin
the best drug for allergies at the moment
Photo: www.utkonos.ru
In the first place in terms of effectiveness is the third generation antihistamine - Cetrin.
The average estimated cost of the drug is from 160 to 200 rubles.
The main advantages of Tsetrin are a high degree of its effectiveness, as well as quick action after taking the drug. It is also preferable because it does not cause drowsiness and "refrains" from negative effects on the liver.
Cetrin should be taken to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies, hay fever, or atopic dermatitis.
This drug is the best choice for both adults and children. It has a pleasant taste, has practically no contraindications and restrictions on use. Unlike other drugs, it is enough to use it once a day, which greatly facilitates the application process.
In the ranking of the most effective antiallergic drugs, Cetrin ranks first. On a ten-point scale, he can safely be given 9.5 points. 0.5 points are deducted for the only drawback - the price. Allergy medications can be purchased at a more affordable price, but this is exactly the case when it is appropriate to recall the words of the wise Jew: "I am not rich enough to buy cheap things."
Claritin is a sure, reliable, safe medicine for allergies
Photo: lechimsya.org
Claritin (Loratadin) is next on the list of the most effective drugs for treating allergies.
The average cost of this drug is from 160 to 220 rubles.
Before the advent of third generation antihistamines, Claritin was the most widely used drug. It was one of the first anti-allergic drugs that did not affect the patient's state of attention, which made it possible for doctors and drivers to use it.
It is used for various manifestations of the allergic process, ranging from skin forms (itching and redness) and ending with laryngospasm (suffocation).
Claritin is good for its speed of action, the possibility of using it in children after a year, as well as in people who need focused attention during work.
The rating of this drug is 9.2 out of 10, since the drug has some drawbacks, such as restricting intake in people with impaired renal function, in women with breastfeeding, and in children under one year old. It stops, to some extent, and the price - for the same money, you can purchase the safest and most effective Tsetrin.
Fenistil - old but still effective ...
Photo: apkiwi.ru
The average price for it currently ranges from 220 to 280 rubles.
Fenistil is a second generation drug of antiallergic drugs. It has less effect than Claritin, however, it is much more effective than the first generation drugs.
The drug is used in the development of an allergic reaction from food products, drugs, with skin rashes and nasal flow during the flowering period.
Fenistil has a good, pronounced antiallergic effect, does not allow an allergic reaction to develop even with a high concentration of allergen and histamine.
In terms of frequency of use, it is in third place among all drugs in the ranking. His rating is 8.2 out of 10. The drug has such disadvantages as sedative, calming effect, increased effect of alcohol when used together, distortion of the action of some other drugs. Contraindicated in breastfeeding, pregnancy, and in children under 2 years of age.
Dangerous but extremely effective - Histalong
Photo: www.gippokrat.kz
Histalong (Astemizole) is an antihistamine drug with the longest clinical effect.
The price for this drug ranges from 300 to 460 rubles, which makes it one of the most expensive drugs.
Histalong belongs to the second generation drugs. Has the longest healing effect (in some people it can reach up to 20 days)
This drug is used in the treatment of chronic allergic processes.
The duration of action of Histalong allows you to use it with a frequency of about once a month. Its use allows you to exclude the intake of other antiallergic drugs.
Despite its duration of action and anti-allergic activity, the drug takes only fourth place in the ranking. Its score on a ten-point scale is 8 out of 10. This result is due to the side effects of this drug - when it is taken, a violation of the normal heart rhythm is possible, which can be fatal in people with heart disease. Contraindicated for use in the acute phase of allergy development, as well as in pregnant women and children.
Time-tested drug - Tavegil
good reliable first generation allergy remedy
Photo: sanatate.md
Tavegil (Clemastine) is one of the most common and used first-generation drugs.
You can buy tavegil, on average, for 100 rubles.
The drug is used both in tablet and injectable forms. It has a fairly strong anti-allergic effect. It is often used as an additional drug for anaphylactic shock and pseudo-allergic reactions.
The low incidence of side effects and high efficiency made it possible to place Tavegil in the rating of the most used drugs. In addition, the drug begins to act rather quickly, and the effect of its use lasts for a rather long time, which makes it the drug of choice in the treatment of allergic processes.
The average rating of this drug on a ten-point scale is 8, 3 out of 10. Tavegil receives a similar rating for such shortcomings as the possible development of an allergic reaction to tavegil itself, a slight sedative effect, which makes it impossible to use it by drivers and doctors. Also, the drug is contraindicated for use in pregnant women, nursing mothers and in children under 1 year of age.
Will help quickly and in any situation - Suprastin
Photo: alfavitnik.ru
Suprastin (Chloropyramine) is a drug commonly used in most branches of medicine. You can buy it for 120-140 rubles.
One of the most effective first-generation histamine blockers
It is used for almost all types and manifestations of an allergic reaction; used in the provision of emergency care for allergies (included in the number of mandatory drugs).
Suprastin does not accumulate in the blood serum, which prevents the possibility of an overdose of the drug. The effect develops quite quickly, but to prolong it, it is necessary to combine Suprastin with other drugs. The low cost of the drug is also its undoubted advantage, since it is extremely difficult to choose a high-quality and inexpensive drug in the modern drug market.
In the rating of the best antiallergic drugs, Suprastin receives 9 points out of 10. It is prohibited to use it during pregnancy, lactation, in children under 1 month old, in individuals with individual chloropyramine intolerance, as well as in an acute attack of bronchial asthma.
Standing on guard from time immemorial ... - Diphenhydramine
Photo: www.syl.ru
Diphenhydramine (Diphenhydramine) is a drug of the first generation of antihistamines, the founder of this group of drugs.
Prescription drug.
It is one of the cheapest anti-allergic drugs. Its cost ranges from 15 to 70 rubles.
One of the anti-allergic products that were first invented. It has a fairly strong antihistamine effect.
Diphenhydramine is used to eliminate the manifestations of most allergic processes. It is produced mainly in the form of agents applied topically (in the form of an ointment), but can also be used for systemic treatment. It is part of the so-called triad due to its anti-inflammatory effect.
Diphenhydramine has a pronounced antiallergic effect: the effect develops quickly, but ends just as soon. Due to its low cost, everyone can purchase it.
In the rating of drugs, diphenhydramine is rated 8 out of 10. Despite its effectiveness in the treatment of allergies, diphenhydramine has a number of side effects, among which the most pronounced are drowsiness after using the drug, slight clouding of consciousness with a sedative effect, anemia, heart rhythm disturbances.
Summary ... Which allergy medicine is best?
Having understood in detail the principles of action, efficacy and degree of safety of each of the above drugs, we should once again mention the crowned Tsetrin. Due to its safety and effectiveness, it ranks first in our rating, and it can be recommended for a home first aid kit.
This drug deserves a huge plus for the lack of action on a person's attention and concentration. It can be taken without worrying about side effects and your psycho-emotional state.
Of course, before taking it, it is best to consult with an allergist and study the instructions.
Be healthy and don't sneeze ...
Attention! There are contraindications, specialist advice is needed
Almost every modern person has antihistamines in their home medicine cabinet, which are used to relieve an allergic reaction. But not everyone who uses them knows how such drugs work, how to use them correctly, and what the term "histamine" means. Therefore, you should figure out in which cases these drugs are prescribed, what are their indications and contraindications.
Is a biologically active substance produced by the cells of the immune system. It causes various physiological and pathological processes in the body, acting on receptors located in the tissues of internal organs.
Antihistamines block the production of histamine, which makes them indispensable in the treatment of allergies, gastrointestinal, neurological and other pathologies.
When are antihistamines prescribed?
Indications for taking antihistamines are the following pathological conditions:
- allergic rhinitis;
- allergic conjunctivitis;
- atopic dermatitis;
- Quincke's edema;
- the body's reaction to insect bites;
- an allergic reaction to house dust, pet hair;
- drug intolerance;
- anaphylactic reactions;
- exudative or allergic erythema;
- psoriasis;
- allergy to cold, heat, household chemicals and other toxic substances;
- allergic cough;
- food allergy;
- bronchial asthma.
Types of antiallergic drugs
Several types of histamine-sensitive receptors are present in body tissues. These include:
- H1 (bronchi, intestines, heart vessels, central nervous system);
- H2 (mucous membrane of the stomach, arteries, central nervous system, heart, myometrium, adipose tissue, blood cells);
- H3 (central nervous system, cardiovascular system, digestive organs, upper respiratory tract).
Each antihistamine composition acts only on certain groups of receptors, so only a doctor should prescribe them.
The first generation of antihistamines blocks the sensitivity of the H1 receptors and also encompasses a group of other receptors. The active substance that is part of these drugs penetrates the blood-brain barrier, causing the development of a side effect - a sedative effect. This means that these antihistamine medicines make a person feel sleepy, accompanied by a feeling of fatigue.
Treatment with first generation antihistamines is not allowed if the work of the person taking them is focused on concentration.
This type of antihistamine medication also has other side effects. These include:
- dry mucous membranes;
- narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi;
- violation of the stool;
- violation of the heart rhythm.
These funds act very quickly, however, the effect after taking them persists for a short time. In addition, the first generation of antihistamines is addictive and should not be taken for longer than 10 days. They are not prescribed for stomach diseases occurring in an acute form, as well as in combination with antidiabetic and psychotropic drugs.
First generation antihistamines include:
| A drug | Photo | Price |
|---|---|---|
| from 128 rub. | ||
| from 158 rub. | ||
| from 134 rub. | ||
| from 67 rubles. | ||
| from 293 rub. |
The development of the second generation of antihistamines has eliminated most of the side effects. The benefits of these drugs include:
- lack of sedation (slight drowsiness can be observed in particularly sensitive patients);
- the patient maintains normal physical and mental activity;
- the duration of the therapeutic effect persists throughout the day;
- the therapeutic effect of the drugs persists for 7 days after discontinuation.
In general, the effect of antihistamines is similar to previous drugs. But they are not addictive, and therefore the duration of the course of treatment can vary from 3 days to one year. Such drugs should be taken with caution by people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
The second generation anti-allergic agents include:
| A drug | Photo | Price |
|---|---|---|
| from 220 rubles. | ||
| specify | ||
| from 74 rubles. | ||
| from 55 rubles. | ||
| from 376 rub. | ||
| from 132 rub. |
Third-generation antihistamines are selective and affect only the H3 receptors. They have no effect on the central nervous system, and therefore do not cause drowsiness or fatigue.
Although these antihistamines are derivatives of the previous ones, all existing drawbacks were taken into account in their development. Therefore, they have practically no side effects left.
With the help of this type of antihistamines, the following diseases are successfully treated:
- rhinitis;
- hives;
- dermatitis;
- rhinoconjunctivitis.
The most popular antihistamines include:
When are antihistamines not prescribed?
Allergy is a companion of many modern people, which greatly increases the popularity of antihistamines. There are three generations of antihistamines on the pharmaceutical market. The last two generations have much fewer contraindications for use. Therefore, one should consider those conditions in which most antihistamines are not prescribed:
- hypersensitivity or individual intolerance to the components that make up the drugs;
- the period of bearing the baby and natural feeding;
- age restrictions;
- severe stages of hepatic or renal failure.
The dosage of antihistamines should be calculated individually. Therefore, before taking them, you should consult your doctor. For some diseases, the doctor may adjust the dosage of the anti-allergic agent downward, which will avoid the development of side effects.
But since the greatest number of contraindications is present in the first generation drugs, special attention should be paid to them. These drugs are not recommended to be taken in the following conditions:
- in the first trimester of pregnancy;
- with glaucoma;
- with bronchial asthma;
- with an enlarged prostate;
- in old age.
As mentioned above, first-generation antihistamines have a pronounced sedative effect. This side effect is enhanced if they are taken in combination with alcohol, antipsychotics, tranquilizers and other drugs.
Other side effects include the following:
- dizziness;
- tinnitus;
- decreased visual acuity;
- tremor of the limbs;
- insomnia;
- increased nervousness;
- fatigue.
Antiallergic products for children
To eliminate allergic manifestations in children, antiallergic drugs of the first generation are used. These include:
The disadvantage of these drugs is multiple side effects, manifested in impaired digestion, the activity of the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system. Therefore, they are prescribed to children only for severe allergic reactions.
Unfortunately, many babies develop chronic forms of allergic diseases. To minimize the negative impact on the growing body, new generation antihistamines are prescribed for the treatment of chronic allergies. For the smallest children, they are released in the form of drops, and for older children - in the form of syrups.
It is not for nothing that allergy is called the disease of the 21st century - today people of all ages have to deal with it, and not only in the spring and summer, when plants bloom, but often all year round. Allergic reactions are provoked by anything: food, medicines and household chemicals, pet hair, pollen, ordinary dust, sun and even cold. Therefore, the question of what kind of allergy medicine to choose from all those offered in pharmacies is very relevant.
Allergy symptoms are not painful, but very unpleasant: watery eyes, sneezing, nasal discharge, rashes on the face and body that itch and become inflamed. This condition is especially difficult for young children. In difficult cases, Quincke's edema occurs and anaphylactic shock develops. Therefore, it is so important to know which drugs against allergies, in which cases it is better to use, what are their differences and features. After all, each remedy for allergies has its own composition and mechanism of action, dosages and contraindications are also different. In order not to harm yourself and restore normal health as soon as possible, it is worthwhile to study the rating in detail and choose the best remedy for allergies.
What are the remedies for allergies
Three generations of anti-allergy pills are used in modern therapy. Representatives of the latest generation have incomparably fewer side effects and contraindications, they are distinguished by a quick and more lasting effect even with small dosages. But along with them, traditional anti-allergy remedies for children and adults of the first generation are also used - sometimes only they can improve the patient's condition.
In addition to antihistamines, also against allergies for children and older patients can be prescribed:
- corticosteroids - hormonal injections or pills;
- mast cell membrane stabilizers.
Below will be considered in more detail the most popular anti-allergy drugs from the listed categories. The rating is compiled taking into account the effectiveness of the drug, the number of side effects and cost.
Antihistamines of different generations
To relieve allergy symptoms, it is required to act in two directions: to eliminate the source of the allergy, and to suppress the release of histamine - a substance that the body begins to actively produce in response to an irritant. The latter is achieved with the help of drugs from this group, they relieve irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes and nasopharynx with varying speed and effectiveness, treat rashes and edema, and other symptoms. Today, anti-allergy drugs are used for four generations.
In modern practical medicine, and even more so in pediatrics, these anti-allergenic agents are used in rare cases. But sometimes it is they who become the only possible salvation, so it is worth learning more about them too. The disadvantages of such medicines are much more than the advantages, the main one is a long list of contraindications and side effects.
- Negative effect on the central nervous system - almost all tablets from this class have a pronounced hypnotic and sedative effect.
- With rare exceptions, the therapeutic effect is short-lived.
- These medications can reduce muscle tone.
- Psychomotor agitation may occur with prolonged use of these drugs or an accidental overdose.
- During therapy with these drugs, you should not perform tasks that require increased concentration of attention.
- Antiallergenic medicines of this generation enhance the effect of alcohol, analgesic medicines and some other drugs.
- With a course of treatment for more than three weeks, tachyphylaxis develops - addiction to the active component of the drug, as a result of which its effectiveness decreases. For this reason, if after three weeks of therapy the allergy symptoms have not disappeared, the agent used must be replaced.
In the United States and Europe, many of the drugs in this category are banned and are no longer used. This is due to too frequent negative actions, among which are tachycardia, drying out of the oral mucosa, urinary retention, constipation, and decreased vision clarity.
Advantages
Perhaps the only advantage these antihistamines have for skin allergies is availability. In comparison with new drugs of the latest generations, these are several times cheaper. The effect appears quickly, but does not last long. Some of the tablets are used as an antiemetic or as an alternative when the effect of the main drug is reduced.
Rating of the best first generation allergy antihistamines
Rating #1 #2 #3 Name Points Mild effect on the body Ease of use Availability in the network of pharmacies Fast results It is still quite often prescribed for the treatment of allergies, especially in emergency situations - in this case, it is administered as a solution intramuscularly or intravenously. In comparison with analogues from this class, it has few side effects and contraindications. The active ingredient is chloropyramine, it does not stay in the blood for a long time, is not deposited in cells and is almost completely excreted through the kidneys along with urine. For this reason, Suprastin cannot be taken by those patients who, in addition to allergies, also have renal failure of any form. It has a sedative effect, provokes drowsiness, but is quite effective for urticaria, conjunctivitis of an allergic nature, atopic dermatitis, Quincke's edema.
- Low cost.
- Proven performance.
- Causes drowsiness and inhibits reflex reactions.
- Not prescribed for small children and pregnant women, drivers, doctors.
This drug, proven by many years of experience, is today used as an adjuvant in the treatment of pseudo-allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock. Available as a tablet or liquid for injection. Despite the fact that Tavegil belongs to the first generation, it is still popular today, along with more gentle counterparts.
- Low price - from 100 rubles per package.
- High efficiency - Tavegil really helps to quickly cope with itching, swelling, sneezing and runny nose, lacrimation.
- The effect can last up to eight hours - of all the tablets in this category, only these have such a long-lasting effect.
- Sometimes Tavegil itself causes an allergy.
- Cannot be used to eliminate allergies in pregnant women and young children under the age of one year.
- After taking the pills, it is forbidden to drive and perform other important buildings that require increased attention and accuracy of movements.
The active ingredient in this drug is diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is without exaggeration called the progenitor of all antihistamines. In addition to antiallergic, it also has an anti-inflammatory effect, is included in the triad - a combination of drugs used by ambulance teams in emergency treatment.
- Low cost.
- Fast action.
- Combines well with other medicines.
- Drowsiness, lethargy, inhibition of reactions, or vice versa, excessive agitation, insomnia.
- The active substance affects the contractions of the heart, causes anemia.
- It is better not to use diphenhydramine for systemic treatment of children and pregnant or lactating women.
The active component of this drug is mebhydrolin.
- Suitable for all ages.
- It is inexpensive.
- It acts quickly and retains the effect for a long time.
- Can be used for prophylaxis.
- Ineffective for severe allergies as the main drug.
- Has contraindications and side effects.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation, heart failure, epilepsy, glaucoma, prostatitis adenoma.
This remedy is effective for almost all types of allergies, quickly eliminates the manifestations of hay fever, urticaria, neurodermatitis, dermatitis by suppressing the release of histamine. Also used to treat migraines, anorexia, cachexia. The active substance is cyproheptadine salts.
- Available in tablets for adults and in syrup for children from two years of age.
- Has a wide range of effects.
- Stimulates the absorption of nutrients, which is important for patients with anorexia, nutritional problems and weight gain.
- Leads to disturbances in the outflow of urine and swelling.
- Not prescribed for pregnant and lactating women.
- It causes weight gain, which is not suitable for everyone.
- It has a sedative effect and causes drowsiness.
Second generation antihistamines for allergies
The main difference and advantage of these medications is their insignificant effect on the central nervous system. Drowsiness or slowness of reactions occur much less often, only if the dosage is violated or the patient's individual hypersensitivity to the active ingredients. They also have less effect on the heart tissue and the digestive tract. If you need to find a good, inexpensive remedy for allergies for children, doctors often turn to drugs in this category.
disadvantages
- Not all means are applicable for women during the period of carrying and feeding a child, infants.
- Should not be taken for kidney disease.
- High price.
Advantages
- Fast action lasting for 8-12 hours;
- Significantly fewer side effects.
- Possibility of using in pediatrics.
Below is an overview of the most commonly purchased drugs from this group.
Rating of the best second generation allergy antihistamines
Rating #1 #2 #3 Name Points Mild effect on the body Ease of use Effective elimination of the body's allergic reaction Availability in the network of pharmacies Fast results Leader in its class. It is prescribed to eliminate the manifestations of allergies in patients of all ages, including elderly people and babies from a year.
- Does not depress the nervous system, does not reduce concentration.
- It works already after 20-30 minutes after ingestion and remains effective for up to 8 hours.
- The tablets quickly help to reduce the annoying itching, swelling and redness of the skin, they are no less effective for laryngospasm and bronchospasm.
- Effects on the kidneys.
- Quite a high cost - for the same amount you can buy a safer, last-generation product.
Another popular second-generation remedy, despite the abundance of modern, improved medicines. According to reviews, in terms of its effectiveness, Fenistil is inferior to Claritin. But, nevertheless, it is very popular among young mothers, as it is produced in different pharmaceutical forms. It is convenient to use it to treat allergies in infants: drops are taken orally, and the ointment is used externally against itching and redness.
- It quickly stops an allergy attack and blocks the further production of histamines.
- Effective for all types of allergies - food, sun, cold, chemicals, plants and animal dander.
- Weak sedation.
- Incompatibility with alcohol and certain drugs.
- It is prescribed with caution to pregnant, lactating and young children.
A potent, but not the most harmless remedy for severe and persistent allergies. Differs in prolonged action - in some patients it lasts up to ten days or more. Therefore, Histalong is the drug of choice in the treatment of chronic allergies in patients of different ages.
It affects the kidneys, so it is undesirable to use a medicine for dysfunctions of these organs. It is a 3rd generation antihistamine, an active H1 receptor antagonist. Acts selectively, is a derivative of buterophenol in its composition. It is used in the treatment of chronic allergies, bronchial asthma, as well as temporary acute allergic reactions caused by external irritants.
- Does not affect the psychomotor activity and emotional state of the patient.
- Does not cause drowsiness.
- It can be used for diagnoses such as glaucoma and prostate adenoma.
- If the dosage is exceeded, the drug itself can cause allergies - skin rashes, itching, edema, etc.
Third generation antihistamines
They are metabolites of the previous generation drugs. When exposed, the nervous system and heart are not affected, and almost no effect on kidney function. Accordingly, the price is higher for them.
disadvantages
- At a high cost, they cannot be used to treat children under the age of 2–6 years (with rare exceptions).
- Not everyone can afford such expensive funds.
Advantages
- A minimum of side effects.
- Excellent efficiency.
- Duration of action.
- For children, they are made in the form of syrups and suspensions with pleasant flavors.
Cetrin
It is a recognized leader among medications produced today. It does not cause drowsiness, does not inhibit reactions and reflexes, does not impair attention and vision, liver, kidney and heart function. Moreover, the cost of one package is no more than 200 rubles. Suitable for eliminating manifestations of any type of allergy, it begins to act already a quarter of an hour after ingestion. To maintain a stable condition of the patient, one dose per day is enough. And most importantly, it has practically no contraindications, it is prescribed at any age.
Tsetrin's analogs from this category: Cetirizine, Zyrtec, Zodak, Telfast, Fexofenadine, Erius.
Glucocorticoids for allergies
As a rule, they are resorted to for serious forms of pathology, they are prescribed both locally and systemically, in the form of tablets and injections. As part of these funds, the same hormones that are produced by the adrenal cortex. Therefore, corticosteroids help relieve inflammation and allergies where classical drugs are powerless. The most common drugs in this class are:
- Prednisolone;
- Dexamethasone;
- Beclamethasone.
Corticosteroids are prescribed for the treatment of bronchial asthma; side effects are less pronounced if they are used for inhalation. The main drawback is the unpredictability of possible side effects. Therefore, hormonal pills and solutions cannot be used on their own.
Mast cell membrane blockers
These are Ketotifen, Kromoglin, Kromohexal, Intal. Available in the form of tablets, inhalations, syrups, sprays. Rarely assigned to children under two years of age. Active ingredients stabilize mast cell membranes and thereby stop the production of histamine, a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. They are also used exclusively on the recommendation of a doctor, especially in pediatrics.
conclusions
There is no universal remedy for allergies. Each patient has his own physiological characteristics, therefore, for each there are the best allergy pills that suit him perfectly, and the other patient may not be satisfied for one reason or another. Sometimes it takes months and years to find the optimal remedy. But the range of modern anti-allergenic medicines allows you to ultimately find exactly what you need - the question, as a rule, is the price and availability of a well-stocked pharmacy.
Antihistamine - what is it? There is nothing complicated: such substances are specially designed to suppress free histamine. They are used to combat allergic manifestations and in the treatment of cold symptoms.
Histamine is a neurotransmitter released from the mast cells of the immune system. It is capable of causing many different physiological and pathological processes in the body:
- edema in the lungs, swelling of the nasal mucosa;
- itching and blistering of the skin;
- intestinal colic, impaired gastric secretion;
- expansion of capillaries, increased vascular permeability, hypotension, arrhythmia.
There are antihistamines that block histamine H1 receptors. They are used in the treatment of allergic reactions. There are also H2-blockers, which are indispensable in the treatment of gastric diseases; H3-histamine blockers in demand in the treatment of neurological diseases.
Histamine causes symptoms characteristic of allergies, and H1 blockers prevent and control it.
What are first or second generation antihistamines? Histamine blocking drugs have undergone repeated modifications. More effective blockers have been synthesized without many of the side effects associated with H1 blockers. There are three classes of histamine blockers.
First generation antihistamines
The first generation of drugs, by inhibiting H1 receptors, also captures a group of other receptors, namely cholinergic muscarinic receptors. Another feature is that first-generation drugs affect the central nervous system, since they penetrate the blood-brain barrier, which causes a side effect - sedation (drowsiness, apathy).
Generations of antihistamines
Blockers are selected after assessing the patient's condition; the sedative effect can be both weak and pronounced. In rare cases, antihistamines can cause excitation of the psychomotor systems.
Remember, treatment with H1-blockers in a work environment that requires increased attention is unacceptable!
First generation antihistamines work quickly, but only work for a short time. Taking medications for more than ten days is contraindicated as they are addictive.
Also, the atropine-like action of H1-blockers causes side effects, among them: dry mucous membranes, bronchial obstruction, constipation, cardiac arrhythmia.
With a stomach ulcer, in combination with diabetes medications or psychotropic medications, the doctor should be careful when prescribing.
The first generation of antihistamines includes suprastin, tavegil, diazolin, diphenhydramine, fencarol.
First generation antihistamine
Second generation antihistamines
What is a second generation antihistamine? These are drugs with an improved structure.
Differences of the second generation of funds:
- There is no sedative effect. In particularly sensitive patients, mild drowsiness may appear.
- Physical and mental activity remains normal.
- Duration of the therapeutic effect (24 hours).
- After the course of treatment, the positive effect lasts for seven days.
- H2 blockers do not cause gastrointestinal problems.
Also, H2 blockers are similar to H1 blockers, with the exception of the effect on some of the receptors. In this case, H2 blockers do not act on muscarinic receptors.
A feature of antihistamine drugs related to H2-blockers, along with a fast-onset and long-term effect, is the absence of addiction, which allows them to be prescribed for a period of three to twelve months. Care is required when prescribing some H2 blockers, as drugs can adversely affect the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
The modern doctor has at his disposal a variety of antihistamines with various therapeutic effects. However, they all only alleviate the symptoms of allergies.
The second generation of antihistamines is claridol, claritin, clarisens, rupafin, lomilan, lorahexal and others.
Allergy
Third generation antihistamines
H3-blockers are distinguished by an even greater selectivity of influence by choosing certain histamine receptors. Unlike the two previous generations, it is no longer necessary to overcome the blood-brain barrier, and, as a result, the negative effect on the central nervous system comes to naught. There is no sedative effect, side effects are minimized.
H3-blockers are successfully used in a therapeutic complex for chronic allergies, seasonal or year-round rhinitis, urticaria, dermatitis, rhinoconjunctivitis.
The third generation of antihistamines includes gismanal, trexil, telfast, zyrtec.
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