Antihistamines(or in simple words Allergy drugs) belong to a group of drugs whose action is based on blocking histamine, which is the main mediator of inflammation and a provocateur of allergic reactions. As you know, an allergic reaction is the body's immune response to the effects of foreign proteins - allergens. Antihistamines medicines designed to stop similar symptoms and prevent their occurrence in the future.
V modern world antiallergic drugs are widespread, representatives of this group can be found in the medicine cabinet of any family. The pharmaceutical industry expands its range every year and releases more and more new drugs, the action of which is aimed at combating allergies.
Antihistamines of the 1st generation are gradually becoming a thing of the past, they are being replaced by new drugs, which are advantageously distinguished by their ease of use and safety. It can be difficult for an ordinary consumer to understand such a variety of medicines, so in this article we will present the best antihistamines of different generations and talk about their advantages and disadvantages.
The main job of allergy medications is to interfere with the production of histamine produced by the cells. immune system... Histamine in the body accumulates in mast cells, basophils and platelets. A large number of these cells are concentrated in the skin, mucous membranes of the respiratory system, next to blood vessels and nerve fibers. Under the action of an allergen, histamine is released, which penetrates into the extracellular space and circulatory system, causes allergic reactions from the most important systems of the body (nervous, respiratory, integumentary).
Everything antihistamines inhibit the release of histamine and prevent its attachment to the end of nerve receptors. Medicines in this group have antipruritic, antispastic and decongestant effects, effectively eliminating allergy symptoms.
To date, several generations of antihistamines have been developed, differing from each other in the mechanism of action and duration. therapeutic effect... Let us dwell in more detail on the most popular representatives of each generation of antiallergic drugs.
1st generation antihistamines - list
The first drugs with antihistamine action were developed back in 1937 and since then have been widely used in therapeutic practice. Medicines enter into a reversible relationship with H1 receptors, additionally encompassing cholinergic muscarinic receptors.
Medicines of this group have a quick and pronounced healing effect, have antiemetic and anti-pumping action, but it does not last long (from 4 to 8 hours). This explains the need for frequent high doses of the drug. 1st generation antihistamines can effectively treat allergy symptoms, but they positive traits are largely offset by significant drawbacks:
- A distinctive characteristic of all drugs in this group is sedation... Means of the 1st generation are able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier to the brain, causing drowsiness, muscle weakness, and inhibiting the activity of the nervous system.
- Addictiveness quickly develops on the action of drugs, which significantly reduces their effectiveness.
- First-generation drugs have quite a few side effects... Taking pills can cause tachycardia, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention and negative action on the body of alcohol.
- Due to the sedative effect, the medication should not be taken by people who drive vehicles, as well as those whose professional activity requires high concentration attention and speed of reaction.
First generation antihistamines include:
- Diphenhydramine (from 20 to 110 rubles)
- Diazolin (from 18 to 60 rubles)
- Suprastin (from 80 to 150 rubles)
- Tavegil (from 100 to 130 rubles)
- Fenkarol (from 95 to 200 rubles)
Diphenhydramine
The drug has a fairly high antihistamine activity, has an antitussive and antiemetic effect. Effective for hay fever, vasomotor rhinitis, urticaria, seasickness, allergic reactions caused by medication.
Diphenhydramine has a local anesthetic effect, so it can be replaced with Lidocaine or Novocaine in case of intolerance.
The disadvantages of the drug include a pronounced sedative effect, the short duration of the therapeutic effect and the ability to cause rather serious adverse reactions(tachycardia, disturbances in the work of the vestibular apparatus).
Diazolin
Indications for use are the same as for Diphenhydramine, but the sedative effect of the drug is much weaker.
However, when taking medication, patients may notice drowsiness and a slowdown in psychomotor reactions. Diazolin can cause side effects: dizziness, irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, fluid retention in the body.
Suprastin
It can be used to treat symptoms of hives, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, rhinitis, pruritus. The drug can help with severe complications warning.
Possesses high antihistaminic activity, renders fast action, which allows the drug to be used for the relief of acute allergic conditions. The disadvantages include the short duration of the therapeutic effect, lethargy, drowsiness, dizziness.
Tavegil
The drug has a longer antihistamine effect (up to 8 hours) and has a less pronounced sedative effect. However, taking the drug may cause dizziness and lethargy. Tavegil in the form of injections is recommended for such serious complications as Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock.
Fenkarol
It is taken when it is necessary to replace an antihistamine that has lost its effectiveness due to addiction. This drug is less toxic, does not have a depressing effect on nervous system, but retains weak sedative properties.
Currently, doctors try not to prescribe 1st generation antihistamines due to the abundance of side effects, preferring more modern medicines 2-3 generations.
2nd generation antihistamines - list
Unlike drugs of the 1st generation, more modern antihistamines do not have a sedative effect, are not able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and have a depressing effect on the nervous system. 2nd generation drugs do not reduce physical and mental alertness, have a quick curative action, which lasts for a long time (up to 24 hours), which allows you to take just one dose of medication per day.
Among other advantages, the absence of addiction is distinguished, due to which medicines can be used for a long time. The therapeutic effect of taking medications lasts for 7 days after the drug is discontinued.
The main disadvantage of this group is the cardiotoxic effect, which develops as a result of blocking the potassium channels of the heart muscle. Therefore, 2nd generation drugs are not prescribed for patients with cardiovascular vascular problems and elderly patients. In other patients, taking medications should be accompanied by monitoring of cardiac activity.
Here is a list of the most popular 2nd generation antihistamines and their prices:
- Allergodil (Azelastin) - from 250 to 400 rubles.
- Claritin (Loratadin) - price from 40 to 200 rubles.
- Semprex (Aktivastin) - from 100 to 160 rubles.
- Kestin (Ebastin) - from the price of 120 to 240 rubles.
- Fenistil (Dimetinden) - from 140 to 350 rubles.
Claritin (Loratadin)
This is one of the most popular second generation drugs. Differs in high antihistaminic activity, lack of sedative effect. The medicine does not enhance the effects of alcohol, it goes well with other medicines.
The only drug in the group that does not have an adverse effect on the heart. Does not cause addiction, lethargy and drowsiness, which allows you to prescribe Loratadin (Claritin) to drivers. Available in the form of tablets and syrup for children.
Kestin
The drug is used to treat allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria. The advantages of the drug are the absence of sedation, rapid advance the therapeutic effect and its duration, which lasts for 48 hours. Of the minuses - side reactions (insomnia, dry mouth, abdominal pain, weakness, headache).
Fenistil(drops, gel) - differs from 1st generation drugs in high antihistaminic activity, duration therapeutic effect and less pronounced sedation.
Semprex- has a minimal sedative effect with pronounced antihistamine activity. The therapeutic effect comes quickly, but in comparison with other drugs in this group, it is more short-lived.
3rd generation - a list of the best drugs
3rd generation antihistamines act as active metabolites of second generation drugs, but unlike them do not have cardio toxic effect and do not affect the work of the heart muscle. They have practically no sedative effect, which makes it possible to use medicines in persons whose activities are related to increased concentration attention.
Due to the absence of side effects and negative effects on the nervous system, these drugs are recommended for long-term treatment, for example, with seasonal exacerbations of long-term allergies. The drugs of this group are used in different age categories, for children produce comfortable forms(drops, syrup, suspension), facilitating the intake.
Antihistamines of the new generation are distinguished by their speed and duration of action. The therapeutic effect occurs within 15 minutes after administration and lasts up to 48 hours.
Medicines can cope with the symptoms of chronic allergies, year-round and seasonal rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchial asthma, urticaria, dermatitis. They are used to relieve acute allergic reactions, are prescribed as part of complex treatment bronchial asthma, dermatological diseases, in particular psoriasis.
The most demanded representatives of this group are the following drugs:
- Zyrtek (price from 150 to 250 rubles)
- Zodak (price from 110 to 130 rubles.)
- Tsetrin (from 150 to 200 rubles)
- Cetirizine (from 50 to 80 rubles)
Cetrin (Cetirizine)
This drug is rightfully considered the "gold standard" in therapy. allergic manifestations... It is successfully used in adults and children to eliminate severe forms allergies and bronchial asthma.
Cetrin is used for the treatment and prevention of conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema. After a single dose, relief occurs within 15-20 minutes and continues throughout the day. With the course application, addiction to the drug does not occur, and after the termination of therapy, the therapeutic effect persists for 3 days.
Zyrtek (Zodak)
The drug is able not only to enclose the course of allergic reactions, but also to prevent their occurrence. By reducing capillary permeability, effectively eliminates edema, relieves skin symptoms, relieves itching, allergic rhinitis, inflammation of the conjunctiva.
Taking Zirtek (Zodak) allows you to stop attacks of bronchial asthma and prevent the development of serious complications(Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock). At the same time, non-compliance with the dosage can lead to migraines, dizziness, drowsiness.
Antihistamines of the 4th generation are the latest drugs that can have an immediate effect in the absence of side effects. It is modern and safe means, the action of which persists for a long time, without affecting in any way the state of the cardiovascular and nervous system.
Despite the minimum of side effects and contraindications, before you start taking, you should consult with your doctor, since medications last generation have certain restrictions for use in children and are not recommended for use in pregnant and lactating women.
To the list the latest drugs includes:
- Telfast (Fexofenadine) - price from 180 to 360 rubles.
- Erius (Desloratadin) - from 350 to 450 rubles.
- Ksizal (Levocetirizine) - from 140 to 240 rubles.
Telfast
It is highly effective against pollinosis, urticaria, and prevents acute reactions (Quincke's edema). Due to the absence of a sedative effect, it does not affect the speed of reactions and does not cause drowsiness. Subject to the recommended dosage, it practically has no side effects, when taken in high doses, dizziness, headache, and nausea may occur. High efficiency and duration of action (more than 24 hours) allow you to take only 1 tablet of the drug per day.
Erius
The medicine is produced in the form of film-coated tablets and syrup, intended for children over 12 months of age. The maximum therapeutic effect is achieved 30 minutes after taking the drug and lasts for 24 hours.
Therefore, it is recommended to take only 1 Erius tablet per day. The dosage of the syrup is determined by the doctor and depends on the age and weight of the child. The drug has practically no contraindications (except for the period of pregnancy and lactation) and does not affect the concentration of attention and the state of the vital systems of the body.
Ksizal
The effect of using the medicine occurs within 10-15 minutes after taking it and continues long time, in connection with which it is enough to take only 1 dose of the medication per day.
The drug effectively eliminates mucosal edema, itchy skin and rashes, prevents the development of acute allergic reactions. Ksizal can be treated for a long time (up to 18 months), it is not addictive and has practically no side effects.
Antihistamines of the 4th generation have proven their effectiveness and safety in practice, they are gaining popularity and are available to a wide range of consumers.
However, self-medication should not be practiced; before purchasing a drug, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will select the best option taking into account the severity of the disease and possible contraindications.
Children are much more susceptible to allergic diseases than adults. Antihistamines for children should be effective, have a milder effect and a minimum of contraindications. They should be selected by a qualified specialist - an allergist, since many medications can cause unwanted side reactions.
A child's body, with not yet formed immunity, can react sharply to taking the drug, therefore, a doctor should be observed during the period of treatment of the child. For children, medicines are produced in convenient dosage forms(in the form of syrup, drops, suspension), which facilitates the dosage and does not cause disgust in the child when taken.
Suprastin, Fenistil will help to quickly relieve acute symptoms; for longer treatment, modern drugs Zyrtec or Ketotifen are usually used, which are approved for use with 6 months of age... Of the latest generation drugs, Erius is the most popular, which in the form of a syrup can be prescribed to children from 12 months. Medicines such as Claritin, Diazolin can be used from 2 years old, but the latest generation drugs (Telfast and Ksizal) - only from 6 years old.
Most frequent drug for the treatment of infants is Suprastin, the doctor prescribes it in minimum dosage able to have a healing effect, and provide a light soothing and hypnotic effect... Suprastin is completely safe not only for babies, but also for nursing mothers.
Of more modern drugs to eliminate allergic manifestations in children, Zyrtec and Claritin are most often used. These remedies last longer, so you can take one dose of medication per day.
Allergy medications during pregnancy
Antihistamines during pregnancy should not be taken in the first trimester. Subsequently, they are prescribed only according to indications and taken under the supervision of a doctor, since no medication is completely safe.
The drugs of the last, 4th generation are absolutely contraindicated in any trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding... Among the most safe medicines from allergies during pregnancy include Claritin, Suprastin, Zirtek.
Medicines, united by the phrase " antihistamines"Are surprisingly common in first aid kits. At the same time, the overwhelming majority of people using these drugs do not have the slightest idea about how they work, or what the word "antihistamines" actually means, or what all this can lead to.
The author would love to write in big letters the slogan: "antihistamines should be prescribed only by a doctor and used in strict accordance with how the doctor prescribed," after which I would put a full point and close the topic of this article. But this situation will be very similar to the numerous warnings of the Ministry of Health regarding smoking, so we will refrain from slogans and move on to filling the gaps in medical knowledge.
So the emergence
allergic reactions is largely due to the fact that under the influence of certain substances ( allergens) v human body completely defined biologically active substances which, in turn, lead to the development allergic inflammation... There are dozens of substances, but the most active of them is histamine... Have healthy person histamine is in an inactive state inside perfectly defined cells (so-called mast cells). On contact with an allergen, mast cells release histamine, which leads to allergy symptoms. These symptoms are very diverse: swelling, redness, rashes, cough, runny nose, bronchospasm, decreased blood pressure etc.
For a long time, doctors have been using drugs that can affect the exchange of histamine. How to influence? Firstly, to reduce the amount of histamine released by mast cells and, secondly, to bind (neutralize) that histamine that has already begun to actively act. It is these drugs that are combined into the group of antihistamines.
In this way, main meaning use of antihistamines
Prevention and / or elimination of allergy symptoms. Any and all allergies: respiratory allergies (inhaled something wrong), food allergies (ate something wrong), contact allergies (smeared with something wrong), pharmacological allergies (treated with something that did not fit) ...
It should be immediately replaced that the preventive effect of any
a antihistamines are not always expressed so that there is no allergy at all. Hence the quite logical conclusion that if you know a specific substance that causes allergies in you or your child, then the logic is not to eat an orange with a bite of suprastin, but to avoid contact with the allergen, i.e. don't eat orange. Well, if it is impossible to avoid contact, for example, an allergy to poplar down, there are a lot of poplars, but they do not give a vacation, then it's time to get treatment.
The "classic" antihistamines include diphenhydramine, diprazine, suprastin, tavegil, diazolin, fenkarol. All these medicines have been used for many years.
The experience (both positive and negative) is quite extensive.
Each of the above drugs has many synonyms, and there is not a single well-known pharmaceutical company that does not produce at least something antihistamine, under its own proprietary name, of course. The most relevant knowledge is at least, two synonyms, referring to drugs often sold in our pharmacies. It is about pipolfen, which is the twin brother of diprazine and clemastine, which is the same as tavegil.
All of the above drugs can be used by swallowing (tablets, capsules, syrups), diphenhydramine is also available in the form of suppositories. In case of severe allergic reactions, when a quick effect is needed, intramuscular and intravenous injection(diphenhydramine, diprazine, suprastin, tavegil).
We emphasize once again: the purpose of using all of the above drugs is the same.
Prevention and elimination of allergy symptoms. But pharmacological properties antihistamines are not limited to only antiallergic action... A number of drugs, especially diphenhydramine, diprazine, suprastin and tavegil, have more or less pronounced sedative (hypnotic, sedative, inhibitory) effects. And the broad masses are actively using this fact, considering, for example, diphenhydramine as a wonderful sleeping pill. Suprastin with tavegil also sleeps well, but they are more expensive, so they are used less often.
The sedative effect of antihistamines requires special care, especially when the person using them is engaged in work that requires a quick response, such as driving a car. However, there is a way out of this situation, since diazolin and fencarol have very little sedative effects. It follows that for a taxi driver with an allergic rhinitis, suprastin is contraindicated, and fencarol will be just right.
Another effect of antihistamines
The ability to enhance (potentiate) the effect of other substances. Doctors widely use the potentiating effect of antihistamines to enhance the effect of antipyretic and analgesic drugs: everyone knows the favorite mixture of ambulance doctors - analgin + diphenhydramine. Any funds acting on the central nervous system, in combination with antihistamines, become noticeably more active, an overdose can easily occur up to loss of consciousness, coordination disorders are possible (hence the risk of injury). As for the combination with alcohol, then predict possible consequences no one will undertake, but maybe anything - from deep-deep sleep to very delirious tremens.
Diphenhydramine, diprazine, suprastin, and tavegil have very undesirable side effects
- "drying" effect on the mucous membranes. Hence the often occurring dry mouth, which is generally tolerable. But the ability to make phlegm more viscous in the lungs is already more relevant and very risky. At least the thoughtless use of the four antihistamines listed above in acute respiratory infections(bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis) significantly increases the risk of pneumonia (thick mucus loses its protective properties, blocks the bronchi, disrupts their ventilation - excellent conditions for the multiplication of bacteria, causative agents of pneumonia).
The effects not directly related to antiallergic action are very numerous and are expressed differently for each drug. The frequency of administration and doses are varied. Some drugs can be used during pregnancy, others cannot. A doctor should know all this, but potential patient you have to be careful. Diphenhydramine has an antiemetic effect, diprazine is used to prevent motion sickness, tavegil causes constipation, suprastin is dangerous for glaucoma, stomach ulcers and prostate adenoma, fencarol is not desirable for liver diseases. Suprastin is possible for pregnant women, fencarol is not allowed in the first three months, tavegil is not allowed at all ...
With all the pros and cons
antihistamines all of the above drugs have two advantages that contribute to their (drugs) widespread use. Firstly, they really help with allergies and, secondly, their price is quite affordable.
The latter fact is especially important, since pharmacological thought does not stand still, but it is also expensive. New modern antihistamines are largely devoid of side effects classic drugs... They do not cause drowsiness, are applied once a day, do not dry out the mucous membranes, and the anti-allergic effect is very active. Typical representatives
Astemizole (Gismanal) and Claritin (Loratadine). Here knowledge of synonyms can play a very significant role - at least the difference in price between Nashensky (Kiev) loratadine and Nenashensky claritin will make it possible to subscribe to the magazine "My Health" for six months.
In some antihistamines, the prophylactic effect significantly exceeds the therapeutic one, that is, they are used mainly for the prevention of allergies. Such agents include, for example, cromoglycate sodium (intal)
The most important drug for the prevention of asthma attacks. For the prevention of asthma and seasonal allergies, for example, for the flowering of certain plants, ketotifen (zaditen, astafen, broniten) is often used.
Histamine, in addition to allergic manifestations, also enhances secretion gastric juice... There are antihistamines that selectively act in this direction and are actively used to treat gastritis with high acidity, peptic ulcer stomach and duodenum
Cimetidine (histac), ranitidine, famotidine. I am reporting this for completeness, since antihistamines are considered only as a treatment for allergies, and the fact that they can also successfully treat stomach ulcers will certainly be a discovery for many of our readers.
However, antiulcer antihistamines are almost never used by patients on their own without a doctor's recommendation. But in the fight against allergies, mass experiments of the population on their bodies
Rule rather than exception.
Given this sad fact, I will allow myself some advice and valuable instructions for lovers of self-medication.
1. Mechanism of action
antihistamines similar, but still there are differences. It often happens that one medicine does not help at all, and the use of another quickly gives positive effect... In short, a very specific drug is often suitable for a specific individual, and why this happens is not always clear. At least, if there is no effect after 1-2 days of taking, the drug must be changed, or (on the advice of a doctor) treated with other methods or drugs of other pharmacological groups.
2. Frequency rate of intake:
Fenkarol
3-4 times a day;
Diphenhydramine, diprazin, diazolin, suprastin
2-3 times a day;
2 times a day;
Astemizole, claritin
1 per day.
3. Average single dose for adults
1 tablet. Children's doses are not included. Adults can experiment on themselves as much as they want, but I will not contribute to the conduct of experiments on children. Antihistamines for children should be prescribed only by a doctor. He will pick up your dose.
4. Reception and food.
Fenkarol, diazolin, diprazine
After meal.
Suprastin
While eating.
Astemizole
On an empty stomach in the morning.
The intake of diphenhydramine, claritin and tavegil is not fundamentally associated with food.
5. Terms of admission. Basically, any
an antihistamine (of course, except for those used prophylactically) does not make sense to take more than 7 days. Some pharmacological sources indicate that you can swallow for 20 days in a row, others report that, starting from the 7th day of intake, antihistamines can themselves become a source of allergies. The optimal, apparently, is the following: if after 5-6 days of administration the need for antiallergic drugs has not disappeared, the medication should be changed,
We drank diphenhydramine for 5 days, switched to suprastin, etc. - fortunately, there is plenty to choose from.
6. It makes no sense to use
antihistamines "just in case" along with antibiotics. If a doctor prescribes an antibiotic and is allergic to it, you should stop taking it immediately. Antihistamine medication will slow down or weaken the manifestations of allergies: later we will notice that we will have time to get more antibiotic, then we will be treated for longer.
7. Reactions to vaccinations usually have nothing to do with allergies. So there is no need to prophylactically thrust tavegils-suprastins into children.
8. And the last thing. Please hide antihistamines from children.
To understand what antihistamines are, you need to understand what histamines are and how antihistamines act on them.
Histamines are substances found in the so-called "mast cells". After contact with an allergen, histamines are released from mast cells in order to neutralize the provoking substance. It is histamines that affect the penetrating ability of blood vessels and cause the manifestation of all known symptoms allergies (itching, swelling, redness, lacrimation, blisters, rash, etc.) There are three types of receptors that, reacting to a compound with histamine, have different effects:
1. H1 receptors... When combined with histamine, they cause itching, bronchopulmonary spasms, and increase the permeability of the vessel walls.
2. H2 receptors... They react to histamines by relaxing the muscles of the uterus, increasing gastric secretion, and increasing myocardial contractility.
3. H3 receptors... They are able to inhibit the production of histamine and prevent it from entering the nervous system.
It will now be much easier to understand what antihistamines are and exactly how they work.
Mechanism of action
Antihistamines are substances that have the property of blocking (inhibiting) the sensitivity of receptors to histamine and stopping an acute immune response. Various substances are aimed at inhibiting different types receptors and, accordingly, have different areas Applications:
- H1 blockers. Relieve allergy symptoms;
- H2 blockers. Promote a decrease in gastric secretion, are used in the treatment of stomach diseases;
- H3 blockers. Used in the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system.
Medicines containing H1 receptor inhibitors were invented back in 1936 and have been constantly improved since then. Today there are antihistamines of the I, II and III generations.
Antihistamines of the 1st generation
The main advantage of 1st generation drugs is the ability to quickly stop the immune response. At the same time, the effect does not last long - about 4-6 hours.
The main disadvantage is the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. As a result, there is a depression of the central nervous system. The sedative effect can vary in severity and is manifested in such signs as: drowsiness, loss of attention, apathy. Psychomotor agitation is also possible.
The sedative effect of the 1st generation drugs determines contraindications for use for people whose activities require special attention or require high physical activity.
Side effects include:
- weakness;
- headache;
- nausea, vomiting;
- stool changes;
- dry mucous membranes;
- drop in blood pressure;
- muscle weakness;
- drowsiness;
- arrhythmia.
Almost every one of us actually knows what antihistamines of the 1st generation are. They are the most accessible, common and often used for emergency relief from allergy symptoms, treatment of allergies of unknown origin, to relieve itching and reduce skin reactions, with allergic rhinitis, motion sickness, migraine, asthma.
Preparations of the 1st generation are addictive, therefore, their prolonged use is unacceptable. The course of admission cannot exceed 7-10 days.
In the 1st generation group: Suprastin, Daizolin, Diphenhydramine, Tavegil, Fenkarol.
II generation antihistamines
Medicines of the second generation are more perfect and do not have a depressing effect on the central nervous system. Antihistamine action comes quickly and lasts 24 hours, that is, a single dose per day is enough.
The main disadvantage is the cardiotoxic effect. Generation II antihistamines are capable of blocking the potassium channels of the heart muscle. As a result, heart failure. This effect is enhanced by the concurrent administration of antidepressants, macrolides, antifungal drugs, grapefruit juice.
Means of the second generation are not prescribed for the elderly, patients with heart disease, as well as people with severe impairments in the liver.
Possible side effects:
- dry mucous membranes;
- nausea and vomiting;
- anxiety;
- depression;
- stool disorders;
- headache;
- gastritis.
Second generation antihistamines are used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, eczema, and atopic diseases.
The duration of admission can be up to 12 months.
The group of drugs of the second generation includes: "Loratadin", "Fenistil", "Claritin", "Lomilan", "Cladidol", "Rupafin", etc.
III generation antihistamines
What are Generation III antihistamines? These are special substances - metabolic products of the second generation drugs, the so-called "active metabolites". Metabolites are devoid of the disadvantages of means of I and II generations: suppression of the central nervous system and cardiotoxic effect are eliminated, it is excluded Negative influence on the liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.
Active metabolites are acceptable for use in a wide range of patients for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, rhinitis, pollinosis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, eczema, asthma.
Side effects are practically reduced to zero values. However, occasionally the following are possible:
- headache;
- muscle pain;
- weakness;
- gastritis;
- nausea, vomiting;
- arrhythmia;
- dryness of the mucous membranes.
Preparations of the third generation are permissible for use on an ongoing basis.
A contraindication for taking metabolites is pregnancy, early childhood, individual intolerance to any of the components.
The following drugs belong to the group of metabolites: Zyrtec, Telfast, Erius.
Medicines for children
Most antihistamines are contraindicated for early use. childhood... However, it is babies who are often affected. Therefore, only an experienced specialist should select a medicine.
For quick release from allergy symptoms in early childhood, it is permissible to take 1st generation drugs. For elimination skin manifestations it is possible to use antihistamine ointments and creams.
Throughout the entire course of taking antihistamines, the child's condition should be carefully monitored, and if any adverse reactions occur, you should immediately seek medical help!
Only a specialist knows in detail what antihistamines are, and only an experienced allergist can choose the drug and dosage that is right for you. Self-medication can lead to irreparable consequences!
Choosing a competent specialist
Select a heading Allergic diseases Symptoms and manifestations of allergies Diagnostics of allergies Treatment of allergies Pregnant and lactating Children and allergies Hypoallergenic life Allergy calendar
For 80 years, antihistamines have been widely used to treat allergies. During this time pharmaceutical companies a tremendous amount of work has been done to find active substances that have a maximum therapeutic effect in terms of duration and strength at a minimum therapeutic dose.
One of the ways to systematize the many antihistamines created during this time is to classify them by generation according to the time of creation and the effect on the body.
1st generation drugs caused drowsiness, suppression of consciousness, required frequent changes active substance due to addiction and weakening of the therapeutic effect.
2nd generation drug could cause arrhythmia, possessed toxic effect relative to the myocardium, although they were many times more effective than their predecessors.
On the this moment the safest and strongest in action are allergy remedies new, third, generation, which, having a narrowly specific effect, block the symptoms of allergy, without causing adverse reactions from the heart and central nervous system, and also have a rather long period of action.
The article is devoted to a review of the third generation of antihistamines, we hope that it will help you choose best remedy from allergies.
Advantages and Disadvantages of New Generation Allergy Drugs
Antihistamines of the third generation have an extremely highly specialized effect, due to which they have the following advantages:
- No toxic effect on the heart.
- Do not have hypnotic and sedative effects, which allows them to be assigned to drivers and other persons from whom maximum clarity of thinking is required at work.
- The therapeutic effect occurs a few minutes after taking, and lasts for 24-28 hours, allowing you to take the drug once a day.
- Latest generation drugs not addictive, what is he doing possible application one medication for the entire period of allergy treatment.
Of course, like any drug, the drugs in question have their drawbacks, for example, paradoxically, antihistamines themselves can cause allergies in people who have increased sensitivity to the active substance. Also, the bulk of antihistamines are contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Therefore, the drug should be prescribed only by a doctor - a therapist, immunologist or allergist. He also determines the dosage, which depends on the age and individual characteristics of the patient (for example, renal failure requires dose reduction). Do not self-medicate.
Most often, 3rd generation antihistamines are prescribed for conjunctivitis, dermatitis and rhinitis of an allergic nature.
Classification of drugs by appointment
Below are the drugs for a new generation of allergies, the list is classified according to the purpose of the drug.
Preparations for skin manifestations of allergies
Allergy drops for oral administration
New generation pollen allergy drugs
New generation food allergy drugs
Allergic conjunctivitis medications
List of new generation allergy drugs
The information provided in this section allows you to familiarize yourself with the subject of the article in more detail, as well as, if necessary, select analogues. For convenience, all medicines are grouped by active ingredient.
For each remedy, the possibility of taking it during pregnancy, breastfeeding is indicated, the minimum age is given, from which the drug can be used, the rules of admission, the form of release and average price new generation of allergy medications.
Photos of all drugs can be enlarged by clicking
Active ingredient: Levocetirizine
Ksizal®
1 ml / 1 tablet contains 5 mg of active ingredient.
| Description of the drug Ksizal | ||
| Release form | Tablets and oral drops |
|
| Admission rules | From 6 years old, one table. (tablet) / 20 drops once a day, 2-6 years old - 5 drops twice a day |
|
| Contraindicated | ||
| For children | 2 years old (drops), from 6 years old (tablets) | |
| average price | 225 RUB for 10 tab. | |
Zodak® Express
Active ingredient: Fexofenadine
| Description of the drug Allegra | ||
| Release form | Tablets, 120/180 mg of active ingredient |  |
| Admission rules | One table. once a day | |
| Application during pregnancy and lactation | Contraindicated | |
| Children | from 12 years old | |
| average price | RUB 667 for 10 tab. | |
Active substance: cetirizine
Zyrtec®
| Description of the drug Zyrtec | ||
| Release form |
|
|
| Admission rules | 0.5-1 year - 5 drops once a day; 1-2 years - 5 drops 1-2 times a day; 2-6 years old - 5 drops twice a day / 10 drops once a day; from 6 years old - 0.5 tab. / 10 drops once a day or 1 tab. / 20 drops once a day |
|
| Application during pregnancy and lactation | Contraindicated | |
| Children | from 6 years old | |
| average price | RUB 300 for a 10 ml bottle, 195 RUB for 7 tab. |
|
| drug for children and adults | ||
Zodak®
| Description of the drug Zodak | ||
| Release form | In the form of tablets and oral drops |
|
| Admission rules | ||
| Application during pregnancy and lactation | Contraindicated | |
| Children | ||
| average price | 135 RUB for 10 tab | |
Cetirizine HEXAL
| Description of the drug Cetirizine Hexal | ||
| Release form | In the form of tablets, syrup and oral drops |
|
| Admission rules | 1-2 years - 5 drops twice a day; 2-6 years old - 5 drops twice a day / 10 drops once a day; 6-12 years old - 10 drops / 0.5 tab. every 12 hours or 20 drops / one table. once a day; from 12 years old - 1 tab. / 20 drops once a day |
|
| Application during pregnancy and lactation | Contraindicated | |
| Children | from 1 year old (drops), from 6 years old (tablets) | |
| average price | RUB 95 for a 75 ml bottle, 408 r for 10 tab. |
|
Active ingredient: Fenspiride
CodeStim
Erespal®
Active ingredient: Desloratadine
Desloratadine-Teva
Erius®
| Description of the drug Erius | ||
| Release form | Syrup and tablet form |
|
| Admission rules | 1 tab. Once a day; syrup: up to 5 years - half a teaspoon, from 5 to 12 years old - 1 teaspoon from 12 years old - 2 teaspoons per day |
|
| Application during pregnancy and lactation | Contraindicated | |
| Children | from 1 year old (syrup), 12 years old (tablets) | |
| average price | 568 r for 120 ml bottle, 547 r for 10 tablets |
|
Lordestine
Active ingredient: Norastemizole
Allergy drugs of a new generation are produced in the UK, Switzerland, Italy, Israel, the Czech Republic and many other countries, their range is growing, as is the availability of the population, thanks to which the latest generation of antihistamines is gaining popularity as the most effective and safest means available in our time. for long-term pharmacotherapy allergic diseases.
Today we will talk about antihistamines of the new, latest generation, their list, how effective they are, pharmacological action, how to take, side effects and much more.
Groups of antihistamines
The prevalence of allergic diseases among the population is steadily increasing every year.
In order to stop the symptoms of allergies, improve well-being and completely eliminate the likelihood of severe and sometimes fatal complications the use of antiallergic drugs is required.
Second-generation antihistamines
There is no pronounced sedative effect and most of these drugs have a prolonged effect, that is, they can be taken once a day.
Prescribing such drugs should be carried out with caution, as they have a cardiotoxic effect. That is, their use is completely contraindicated for those who have a history of cardiovascular pathologies.
An example is a drug.
Pharmacological action of drugs
Antihistamines from last group have selectivity in their action - they affect only H1 - histamine receptors.
Antiallergic effect on the body occurs through several changes.
These medicines:
- They inhibit the production of mediators (including cytokines and chemokines) that affect systemic allergic inflammation;
- Reduce total and change the functioning of adhesion molecules;
- Reduces chemotaxis. This term refers to the release of leukocytes from the vascular bed and their penetration into damaged tissue;
- They inhibit the activation of eosinophils;
- Prevents the production of superoxide radical;
- Reduces bronchial hypersensitivity.
All changes that occur under the influence of the latest generation of antihistamines lead to a decrease in the permeability of the vascular walls. As a consequence of this, swelling, hyperemia, itching disappears. skin and mucous membranes.
The absence of an effect on histamine receptors of types 2 and 3 also determines the absence of pronounced side changes in the form of drowsiness and toxic effects on the heart muscle.
The newest antiallergic medicines do not interact with choline receptors, and therefore patients are not worried about dry mouth and blurred vision.
Due to their high anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect, antihistamines of the third group can be prescribed when necessary.
Possible side effects
Patients taking the latest generation of antihistamines rarely experience adverse reactions. But it cannot be said that they do not exist at all.
When treating with these means, the occurrence of:
- Headaches;
- Increased fatigue;
- Periodic dizziness;
- Severe drowsiness or, on the contrary, insomnia;
- Hallucinations;
- Tachycardia;
- Dry mouth;
- Dyspeptic disorders in the form of nausea, colic and abdominal pain, vomiting;
- Pain in different groups muscles;
- Rash on the skin.
Very rarely with long-term treatment developed hepatitis. With a predisposition to allergies, the likelihood of itching of the body, anaphylactic reactions, including Quincke's edema, is increased.
List of drugs
The latest generation antihistamines include:
- Fexofenadine;
- Levocetirizine;
- Cetirizine;
- Desloratadine;
- Hifenadine;
It must be remembered that the listed funds are also available under other names, but their main active ingredient does not change.
Norastemizole and a number of other drugs that are still better known abroad are under development.
Indications for use
The effectiveness of allergy treatment is largely determined by correct selection the drug that must be entrusted to the doctor.
Antiallergic medicines of the third generation are used to treat patients with:
- Seasonal and year-round;
- Conjunctivitis caused by allergens;
- Contact dermatitis;
- Acute and chronic urticaria;
The latest generation drugs can be used during the course and after elimination acute symptoms anaphylactic shock, drug allergy, Quincke's edema.
General contraindications to their appointment are considered only intolerance to the patient of the main or additional components medicines.
Fexofenadine
The drug is available in two dosage forms. The tablets have a dosage of 30, 60, 120 and 180 mg.
The suspension contains 6 mg of the main antiallergic substance in one ml.
Allergy symptoms begin to subside about an hour after oral ingestion.
Maximum effect begins to appear after 6 hours and then stays at the same level for a day.
The medicine should be taken in accordance with the following rules:
- Patients over 12 years old need a daily intake of the drug in a dose of 120 and 180 mg. The tablet is drunk once a day, preferably at the same time.
- From 6 to 11 years old daily dose is 60 mg, but it is recommended to divide it into two doses.
- The tablet does not need to be chewed. It should be washed down with one glass of clean water.
- The duration of therapy depends on the type allergic reaction and its severity.
Fexofenadine was successfully taken by a group of patients for a month or more without developing symptoms of its intolerance.
The drug is best used to cope with allergic rhinitis, it is recommended to prescribe it for hay fever, rashes on the body and urticaria.
Fexofenadine is not prescribed if the child is not yet 6 years old. Caution in the treatment of this drug should be exercised by those who have a history of renal or hepatic pathology.
The components of the drug penetrate into breast milk, and therefore cannot be used during lactation.
How Fexofenadine works on the course of pregnancy has not been clarified, therefore this remedy is assigned to expectant mothers only in exceptional cases.
Differs in the fastest development of antiallergic effect on the body - some patients note a decrease in allergy symptoms within 15 minutes after ingestion.
For most of the people taking the drug, the improvement in well-being occurs in 30-60 minutes.
The maximum concentration of the main active ingredient is determined within two days. The drug passes into breast milk.
Levocetirizine is prescribed to treat different forms allergic rhinitis, the drug helps with, urticaria, etc.
They accept it, guided by the following rules:
- The tablet form is prescribed for children over 6 years old and for adults.
- You need 5 mg of the drug per day, which are contained in one tablet. It is drunk regardless of when the meal is planned, but the drug must be taken with a glass of water.
- The drug in drops from 6 years old is prescribed 20 drops per day. If the child's age is less, then the dosage is selected depending on his weight.
- Duration course treatment depends on the type and severity of the allergic reaction. Patients with hay fever can be prescribed Levocetirizine for up to 6 months. With chronic allergies, taking the drug sometimes continues throughout the year. In the event that possible contact with an allergen is expected, the medicine can be drunk within a week.
Levocetirizine is not prescribed in pediatric practice for children under two years of age. Pregnancy, severe renal failure, congenital pathologies carbohydrate metabolism.
For patients with impaired renal function, the dose of the drug is selected after testing. In cases of mild and moderate pathology, a dose of 5 mg can be drunk once every two or three days.
Analogues of Levocetirizine are -, Alerzin, Aleron Neo, L-cet, Glenzet, Zilola.
Cetirizine
Available in the form of tablets, drops, syrup. The drug is a metabolite of hydroxyzine.
Cetirizine relieves itching well, so its action is optimal in the treatment of urticaria and itchy dermatoses.
The remedy is highly effective in eliminating the symptoms of acute and chronic rhinitis caused by the influence of allergens, in particular ragweed.
The medicine eliminates the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis - lacrimation, itching, hyperemia of the sclera.
Antiallergic effect occurs in two hours and lasts for at least one day.
The drug is prescribed depending on the patient's age:
It is necessary to adjust the dose of the drug in patients with impaired renal functions.
Treatment with Cetirizine is contraindicated during breastfeeding, with congenital disorders in the metabolism of carbohydrates, with individual hypersensitivity.
Caution should be exercised when using this medication for those with a history of epilepsy and convulsive syndrome.
During pregnancy, the drug is prescribed only in extreme cases.
To the most known analogues Cetirizine includes Rolinoz, Allertek, Amertil, Tsetrinal, skin rash and urticaria, hay fever.
The active substance of the drug retains its antiallergic activity in the body throughout the day.
The tablet form is prohibited for use until 12 years of age. Children from one year old should receive the drug in the form of a syrup.
Hifenadine (trade name Fenkarol)
It is produced in the form of tablets and as a solution for intramuscular injection.
Oral administration provides the onset of antiallergic action in an hour, injection administration leads to a decrease in allergy symptoms within half an hour.
Hifenadine and its analogues are prescribed for:
- Dermatosis, accompanied by itching and skin irritation;
- Chronic and acute urticaria;
- Food and;
- Pollinosis, ragweed allergies;
- Allergic conjunctivitis and rhinitis;
- Angioedema.
The daily dose of the drug for adults is up to 200 mg, it is divided into three doses.
The dosage for children is prescribed depending on their age and the type of allergic reaction. Treatment should continue for 10 to 20 days.
Hifenadine is contraindicated throughout pregnancy, for children under three years of age, during the lactation period. Trade names medicines Fenkarol-Olaine, Fenkarol.
An allergist should prescribe any antihistamine medication. Qualified doctor takes into account not only the severity of the allergic reaction, but also the patient's age, the presence of others, including chronic diseases.
Self-treatment often becomes the cause of the development of severe forms of allergy, and this should always be remembered.
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