The best antihistamines. Modern antihistamines: three steps to victory over allergies

A small number of people are lucky enough to never experience allergic reactions. Most people have to deal with them periodically. Effective products will help both adults and children cope with allergies. antihistamines. Such remedies help eliminate negative reactions on the body to certain stimuli. There is a wide range of anti-allergy medications on the market. It is desirable for every person to be able to understand them.

What are antihistamines

These are medications that work to suppress the action of free histamine. This substance is released from cells connective tissue, which enter the immune system when any allergen enters the human body. When histamine interacts with certain receptors, swelling, itching, and rashes begin. All these are symptoms of allergies. Drugs with an antihistamine effect block the above-mentioned receptors, alleviating the patient’s condition.

Indications for use

A doctor must prescribe antihistamines to you after making an accurate diagnosis. As a rule, their use is advisable in the presence of the following symptoms and diseases:

• early atopic syndrome in a child;
• seasonal or year-round rhinitis;
• negative reaction for plant pollen, animal hair, household dust, some medical supplies;
• severe bronchitis;
• angioedema;
• anaphylactic shock;
• food allergies;
• enteropathy;
• bronchial asthma;
• atopic dermatitis;
• conjunctivitis caused by exposure to allergens;
• chronic, acute and other forms of urticaria;
• allergic dermatitis.

Antihistamines - list

There are several generations of antiallergic drugs. Their classification:

1. New generation drugs. The most modern medicines. They act very quickly, and the effect of their use lasts for a long time. They block H1 receptors, suppressing allergy symptoms. Antihistamines in this group do not worsen heart function, therefore they are considered one of the safest.
2. 3rd generation drugs. Active metabolites with very few contraindications. They provide quick, lasting results and are gentle on the heart.
3. 2nd generation drugs. Non-sedative medications. They have a small list side effects, put a lot of stress on the heart. Do not affect mental or physical activity. Antiallergic drugs the second generation is often prescribed for the appearance of rash and itching.
4. 1st generation drugs. Sedative medications, lasting up to several hours. They eliminate allergy symptoms well, but have many side effects and contraindications. Eating them always makes you sleepy. Nowadays, such drugs are prescribed very rarely.

New generation antiallergic drugs

It is not possible to list all the drugs in this group. It's worth taking a look at a few of the best ones. The following drug opens this list:

• name: Fexofenadine (analogues - Allegra (Telfast), Fexofast, Tigofast, Altiva, Fexofen-Sanovel, Kestin, Norastemizole);
• action: blocks H1- histamine receptors, relieves all allergy symptoms;
• pros: acts quickly and for a long time, is available in tablets and suspensions, is well tolerated by patients, does not have too much side effects, available without a prescription;
• cons: not suitable for children under six years of age, pregnant women, nursing mothers, incompatible with antibiotics.

Another drug worthy of attention:

• name: Levocetirizine (analogues - Aleron, Zilola, Alerzin, Glencet, Aleron Neo, Rupafin);
• action: antihistamine, blocks H1 receptors, reduces vascular permeability, has antipruritic and antiexudative effects;
• pros: there are tablets, drops, syrup on sale, the drug works in just a quarter of an hour, there are not many contraindications, it is compatible with many medications;
• cons: a wide range of strong side effects.

• name: Desloratadine (analogs - Lordes, Allergostop, Alersis, Fribris, Eden, Eridez, Alergomax, Erius);
• action: antihistamine, antipruritic, decongestant, relieves rashes, runny nose, nasal congestion, reduces bronchial hyperactivity;
• pros: the new generation allergy medicine is well absorbed and works quickly, relieves allergy symptoms for a day, does not have a negative effect on the central nervous system and speed of reactions, does not harm the heart, allowed joint reception with other drugs;
• cons: not suitable for pregnancy and lactation, prohibited for children under 12 years of age.

Antihistamines 3 generations

Next drug is popular and has many good reviews:

• name: Dezal (analogs - Ezlor, Nalorius, Elisey);
• action: antihistamine, relieves swelling and spasms, relieves itching, rashes, allergic rhinitis;
• pros: available in tablets and solution, does not give a sedative effect and does not affect the speed of reactions, works quickly and lasts for about a day, is quickly absorbed;
• cons: bad for the heart, many side effects.

Experts respond well to this drug:

• name: Suprastinex;
• action: antihistamine, prevents the appearance allergic manifestations and facilitates their course, helps with itching, peeling, sneezing, swelling, rhinitis, lacrimation;
• pros: available in drops and tablets, there is no sedative, anticholinergic or antiserotonergic effect, the drug acts in an hour and continues to work for a day;
• cons: there are a number of strict contraindications.

The group of third-generation drugs also includes the following:

• name: Xyzal;
• action: pronounced antihistamine, not only relieves allergy symptoms, but also prevents their occurrence, reduces the permeability of vascular walls, fights sneezing, lacrimation, swelling, urticaria, inflammation of the mucous membranes;
• pros: sold in tablets and drops, does not have a sedative effect, is well absorbed;
• cons: has a wide list of side effects.

Antiallergenic drugs 2nd generation

A well-known series of medications is represented by tablets, drops, syrups:

• name: Zodak;
• action: prolonged antiallergic, helps against itching, flaking of the skin, relieves swelling;
• pros: if the dosage and rules of administration are followed, it does not cause drowsiness, begins to act quickly, and is not addictive;
• cons: prohibited for pregnant women and children.

The following second generation drug:

• name: Cetrin;
• action: antihistamine, good for swelling, hyperemia, itching, peeling, rhinitis, urticaria, reduces capillary permeability, relieves spasms;
• pros: drops and syrup are available for sale, low cost, lack of anticholinergic and antiserotonin effects, if the dosage is observed, does not affect concentration, is not addictive, side effects are extremely rare;
• cons: there are a number of strict contraindications; an overdose is very dangerous.

Another very good drug this category:

• name: Lomilan;
• action: systemic blocker of H1 receptors, relieves all allergy symptoms: itching, flaking, swelling;
• pros: does not affect the heart and central nervous system, is completely eliminated from the body, helps to overcome allergies well and quickly, suitable for continuous use;
• cons: many contraindications and side effects.

1st generation products

Antihistamines in this group appeared a long time ago and are now used less frequently than others, but nevertheless deserve attention. Here is one of the most famous:

• name: Diazolin;
• action: antihistamine, H1 receptor blocker;
• pros: gives an anesthetic effect, long-lasting, good for dermatoses with itchy skin, rhinitis, cough, food and drug allergies, insect bites, is cheap;
• disadvantages: there is a moderately pronounced sedative effect, many side effects, contraindications.

This one also belongs to 1st generation drugs:

• name: Suprastin;
• action: antiallergic;
• pros: available in tablets and ampoules;
• cons: pronounced sedative effect, the effect does not last long, there are a lot of contraindications and side effects.

The last representative of this group:

• name: Fenistil;
• action: histamine blocker, antipruritic;
• pros: available in the form of a gel, emulsion, drops, tablets, relieves skin irritation well, provides some pain relief, inexpensive;
• cons: the effect after use wears off quickly.

Allergy tablets for children

Most antihistamines have strict contraindications based on age. A completely reasonable question would be: how to treat very young allergy sufferers, who suffer no less than adults? As a rule, children are prescribed drugs in the form of drops, suspensions, and not tablets. Medicines approved for the treatment of infants and persons under 12 years of age:

• Diphenhydramine;
• Fenistil (drops are suitable for infants older than one month);
• Peritol;
• Diazolin;
• Suprastin (suitable for infants);
• Clarotadine;
• Tavegil;
• Cetrin (suitable for newborns);
• Zyrtec;
• Clarisens;
• Cinnarizine;
• Loratadine;
• Zodak;
• Claritin;
• Erius (allowed from birth);
• Lomilan;
• Fenkarol.

Mechanism of action of antihistamines

Under the influence of an allergen, the body produces excess histamine. When it binds to certain receptors, negative reactions are caused (swelling, rash, itching, runny nose, conjunctivitis, etc.). Antihistamines reduce the release of this substance into the blood. In addition, they block the action of H1-histamine receptors, thereby preventing them from binding and reacting with histamine itself.

Side effects

Each drug has its own list. The specific list of side effects also depends on which generation the product belongs to. Here are a few of the most common:

• headache;
• drowsiness;
• confusion;
• decreased muscle tone;
• fast fatiguability;
• constipation;
• disturbances in concentration;
• blurred vision;
• abdominal pain;
• dizziness;
• dry mouth.

Contraindications

Each antihistamine has its own list indicated in the instructions. Almost every one of them is prohibited for pregnant girls and nursing mothers. In addition, the list of contraindications for therapy may include:

• individual intolerance to components;
• glaucoma;
• stomach or duodenal ulcer;
• adenoma prostate gland;
• obstruction Bladder;
• children's or elderly age;
• diseases of the lower respiratory tract.

The best allergy remedies

TOP 5 most effective drugs:

1. Erius. Fast acting medicine, good for eliminating runny nose, itching, rashes. It costs expensive.
2. Eden. A drug containing desloratadine. Does not have a hypnotic effect. Copes well with lacrimation, itching, swelling.
3. Zyrtec. A drug based on cetirizine. Fast-acting and effective.
4. Zodak. Great medicine for allergies, instantly eliminating symptoms.
5. Cetrin. A drug that very rarely produces side effects. Quickly eliminates allergy symptoms.

Price of antihistamines

All medications are available for purchase, and you can easily choose the one that suits you best. Sometimes they give good discounts on funds. You can buy them in pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities, or order them delivered by mail from online pharmacies. For an approximate price range for antihistamines, see the table:

When the human body encounters substances that the immune system regards as allergens, it begins to produce Chemical substance called histamine - a mediator of allergic reactions.

The principle of action of antihistamines is based on blocking histamine receptors. They are located in the nose and respiratory tract, but are also found in the brain.

This is why antihistamines can affect performance and make you want to sleep.

Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis). They may include: inflammation of the nose and eyes (rhinitis and conjunctivitis), sneezing, itchy eyes, skin, nose and throat, runny nose (rhinorrhea).

Allergy medications are also prescribed to reduce the severity of rashes and itching associated with urticaria and generalized itching and emergency therapy severe allergic reactions. Antihistamine first generations are also used in caring for terminally ill patients due to its sedative effects.

According to the modern classification, there are 3 generations of antihistamines.

The first generation includes drugs with the following medicinal substances:

• Diphenhydramine (brand names Diphenhydramine, Benadryl).
• Chloropyramine (brand name Suprastin).
• Clemastine (brand names - Clemastin-Eskom).
• Hifenadine (brand name: Fenkarol).
• Cyproheptadine (brand name Peritol).
• Promethazine (brand names: Diprazine and Pipolfen).

First-generation antihistamines are among the most widely used medications in the world and also provide effective symptomatic relief from allergies and colds for millions of patients. They are time-tested, begin to act after 15 to 30 minutes, but can cause lethargy and lethargy.

Second generation anti-allergy medications include:

In therapeutic doses they do not have a sedative effect; in other words, after taking them they do not make you sleepy. However, they can have a cardiotoxic effect, that is, negatively affect the functioning of the heart, especially in combination with antidepressants, macrolides, antifungals oral medications and grapefruit juice.

The list of third generation antihistamines includes:

• Fexofenadine (brand names: Allegra, Telfast, Fexadine).
• Desloratadine (brand name Erius).
• Cetirizine (brand name -).

These drugs belong to the pharmacologically active metabolites (more active compounds) of 2nd generation drugs. They also do not cause sedation and do not affect the cardiovascular system.

All types of allergy medications are often mixed with other medications, such as pain relievers or decongestants, and may also be used in conjunction with hormonal and non-hormonal allergy ointments.

First generation or sedating antihistamines may cause significant drowsiness. However, thanks this action on the body, these medications may be useful if the patient has allergic itching sleep is disturbed.

Second- and third-generation non-sedative drugs do not usually cause drowsiness. However, those taking these medications while performing skilled tasks - such as driving - should be aware that sedation is still possible, especially when antihistamine tablets are combined with alcohol.

Pharmacies sell generic antihistamines. They have the same active substance, as in original drug, but the name is different from the brand name of the drug developer. For example, generics of Zyrtec are Zodac and Cetrin. A active ingredient these three drugs have cetirizine. At the same time, generics are not necessarily cheaper than the drug with the original name.

Traditional allergy medicines can be successfully combined with homeopathic medicines. With hay fever, the immune system reacts to allergens in the air. As with other allergic reactions, this is the result of an error immune system, which identifies a harmless substance as harmful and responds by releasing the hormone histamine.

Homeopathy seeks to stimulate a self-healing response from the human immune system. To do this, allergens are introduced into the body in a highly diluted form so that the body gets used to them and stops reacting as if they were enemies.

Homeopathic medicines are safer than conventional anti-allergy medicines because they are made from natural substances.

Most useful homeopathic medicines for hay fever are:

• Arsenic Album(Arsenicum album, Arsenic acid). The best remedy for hay fever accompanied by a runny nose with a thin watery discharge. Also used by homeopaths to treat hay fever in people with asthma.
• Allium Cepa(Allium Flail, Onion). Used for spring hay fever with profuse runny nose and sneezing.
• Sabadilla(Sabadilla, Mexican hellebore). Helps with symptoms such as spasmodic sneezing, dry itching, tickling in the nose and runny nose, aggravated by the smell of flowers.
• Natrium chloratum(Natium chloratum, sodium chloride). Helps with sun allergies.
• Kali Bichromium(Kali Bichromicum, Kali dichromium). Helps with hay fever with symptoms such as nasal congestion and a feeling of mucus accumulation at the base of the nose.
• Arum Triphyllum(Arum triphyllum, Indian turnip). Useful for nasal obstruction with sore nostrils, constant desire scratch your nose until it starts to bleed (common in children).

The best allergy medicine: how to choose, comparison of old and new allergy medicines

Allergy treatment has made little progress in recent decades, while hundreds of millions of the world's 7.5 billion people suffer from watery eyes, rashes and... severe cases, the risk of suffocation from exposure to a variety of allergens, ranging from ragweed and pollen from flowering plants to dust and food.

It's not just that eliminating allergies is difficult. Modern drugs such as Benadryl, Claritin, Erius and others perfectly control allergic symptoms in most patients. They are cheap, they are safe and easy to use. Therefore, pharmaceutical companies have no incentive to innovate and produce new allergy medications.

But not all patients respond equally to antihistamines. Therefore, it cannot be called universal best medicine from allergies. An allergist may recommend or prescribe a specific antihistamine depending on the cause of the allergy and whether the patient requires sedation or not. sedative. For example:

• 2nd and 3rd generation antihistamines are recommended for most allergic situations because they cause less drowsiness.
• Cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine are more often recommended for the treatment of urticaria.
• Once-daily medications such as desloratadine and fexofenadine may be more helpful in reducing nasal congestion symptoms.
• A sedating antihistamine may be especially helpful for children who have trouble sleeping due to allergic symptoms.

The most well-known and popular allergy medications include Zyrtec, Claritin and Suprastin. Suprastin is a relatively old medicine, it has been used for more than 30 years. Zyrtec and Claritin are newer allergy medications and are a little over 25 and 20 years old, respectively.

Let's look at them in comparison:

If a medicine recommended by a doctor, be it first or subsequent generations, works well and does not cause unwanted effects, you should stick to it. It often happens that an inexpensive and long-existing pharmaceutical market the product helps better than new drugs - it all depends on the individual reaction of the body.

Before you start taking an antihistamine on a regular basis, you should make sure that you actually have an allergy and not another medical condition such as asthma, a nasal polyp, or severe heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease). The diagnosis of “allergy” can only be made by a doctor.

Today we will talk about:

Antihistamines are substances that suppress the action of free histamine. When an allergen enters the body, histamine is released from connective tissue mast cells, which are part of the body's immune system. It begins to interact with specific receptors and cause itching, swelling, rash and other allergic manifestations. Antihistamines are responsible for blocking these receptors. There are three generations of these drugs.

1st generation antihistamines

1st generation antihistamines are characterized by the following pharmacological properties:

Reduce muscle tone;
have a sedative, hypnotic and anticholinergic effect;
potentiate the effects of alcohol;
have a local anesthetic effect;
give fast and strong, but short-term (4-8 hours) healing effect;
long-term use reduces antihistamine activity, so the drugs are changed every 2-3 weeks.

The bulk of 1st generation antihistamines are fat-soluble, can cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to H1 receptors in the brain, which explains the sedative effect of these drugs, which increases after drinking alcohol or psychotropic drugs. When taking moderate therapeutic doses in children and high toxic doses in adults, psychomotor agitation. Due to the sedative effect, 1st generation antihistamines are not prescribed to persons whose activities require increased attention.

The anticholinergic properties of these drugs cause atropine-like reactions, such as tachycardia, dryness of the nasopharynx and oral cavity, urinary retention, constipation, and blurred vision. These features can be beneficial for rhinitis, but can increase airway obstruction caused by bronchial asthma (the viscosity of sputum increases) and contribute to the exacerbation of prostate adenoma, glaucoma and other diseases. At the same time, these drugs have an antiemetic and anti-sickness effect, reducing the manifestation of parkinsonism.

A number of these antihistamines are included in combined agents, which are used for migraines, colds, motion sickness, or have a sedative or hypnotic effect.

The extensive list of side effects from taking these antihistamines forces them to be used less frequently in the treatment of allergic diseases. Many developed countries have banned their implementation.

Diphenhydramine

Advantages: high antihistamine activity, reduced severity of allergic, pseudo-allergic reactions. Diphenhydramine has an antiemetic and antitussive effect, has a local anesthetic effect, making it an alternative to Novocaine and Lidocaine if they are intolerant.

Minuses: unpredictability of the consequences of taking the drug, its effect on the central nervous system. It can cause urinary retention and dry mucous membranes. Side effects include sedative and hypnotic effects.

Diazolin

Advantages: a weakly expressed sedative effect allows it to be used where it is undesirable to have a depressant effect on the central nervous system.

Minuses: irritates the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, causes dizziness, difficulty urinating, drowsiness, slows down mental and motor reactions. There is information about the toxic effect of the drug on nerve cells.

Suprastin

Advantages: does not accumulate in blood serum, therefore, even with long-term use does not cause overdose. Due to its high antihistamine activity, a rapid therapeutic effect is observed.

Minuses: side effects - drowsiness, dizziness, inhibition of reactions, etc. - are present, although less pronounced. The therapeutic effect is short-term, in order to prolong it, Suprastin is combined with H1-blockers that do not have sedative properties.

Tavegil

Advantages: has a longer and stronger effect antihistamine effect than Diphenhydramine, and has a more moderate sedative effect.

Minuses: may itself cause an allergic reaction, has some inhibitory effects.

Fenkarol

Advantages: has mild sedative properties, does not have a pronounced inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, is low-toxic, blocks H1 receptors, and is able to reduce the content of histamine in tissues.

Minuses: less antihistamine activity compared to Diphenhydramine. Fenkarol is used with caution in the presence of gastrointestinal diseases, of cardio-vascular system and liver.

Antihistamines 2nd generation

There is no sedative and anticholinergic effect, since these drugs do not cross the blood-brain barrier, only some individuals experience moderate drowsiness;
mental activity, physical activity do not suffer;
the effect of the drugs reaches 24 hours, so they are taken once a day;
they are not addictive, which allows them to be prescribed long time(3-12 months);
when you stop taking the drugs, the therapeutic effect lasts about a week;
drugs are not adsorbed from food in the gastrointestinal tract.

But 2nd generation antihistamines have a cardiotoxic effect varying degrees Therefore, when taking them, cardiac activity is monitored. They are contraindicated in elderly patients and patients suffering from disorders of the cardiovascular system.

The occurrence of cardiotoxic effects is explained by the ability of 2nd generation antihistamines to block potassium channels of the heart. The risk increases when these drugs are combined with antifungal drugs, macrolides, antidepressants, grapefruit juice, and if the patient has pronounced violations liver functions.

Claridol

Advantages: Claridol has antipruritic, antiallergic, antiexudative effects. The drug reduces capillary permeability, prevents the development of edema, and relieves spasm of smooth muscles. It has no effect on the central nervous system and does not have an anticholinergic or sedative effect.

Minuses: Occasionally, after taking Claridol, patients complain of dry mouth, nausea and vomiting.

Clarisens

Advantages: the drug is not addictive, does not affect the functioning of the central nervous system, has an anti-exudative effect, relieves swelling and spasms of smooth muscles. Therapeutic effect occurs within half an hour after taking the medicine and lasts for a day.

Minuses: a side effect occurs when the patient has an individual intolerance to the drug and is expressed by dyspepsia, severe headache, fatigue, allergic reactions.

Clarotadine

Advantages: the drug does not have a sedative effect, is not addictive, acts quickly and for a long time.

Minuses: undesirable consequences of taking Clarodin include disorders nervous system: asthenia, anxiety, drowsiness, depression, amnesia, tremor, agitation in a child. Dermatitis may appear on the skin. Frequent and painful urination, constipation and diarrhea. Weight gain due to disruption of the endocrine system. Defeat respiratory system may manifest itself as cough, bronchospasm, sinusitis and similar manifestations.

Lomilan

Advantages: Lomilan is able to relieve itching, reduce the tone of smooth muscles and the production of exudate (a special liquid that appears when inflammatory process), prevent tissue swelling within half an hour from the moment of taking the drug. Greatest efficiency occurs within 8-12 hours, then subsides. Lomilan is not addictive and does not have any negative impact on the activity of the nervous system.

Minuses: adverse reactions occur rarely and are manifested by headache, feeling of fatigue and drowsiness, inflammation of the gastric mucosa, nausea.

LauraHexal

Advantages: the drug has neither an anticholinergic nor a central effect, its use does not affect the attention, psychomotor functions, performance and mental qualities of the patient.

Minis: LauraHexal is usually well tolerated, but occasionally it causes increased fatigue, dry mouth, headache, tachycardia, dizziness, allergic reactions, cough, vomiting, gastritis, liver dysfunction.

Claritin

Advantages: highly effective in the treatment of allergic diseases, the drug does not cause addiction or drowsiness.

Minuses: cases of side effects are rare, they are manifested by nausea, headache, gastritis, agitation, allergic reactions, drowsiness.

Rupafin

Advantages: Rupafin effectively copes with the symptoms of the allergic diseases listed above and does not affect the functioning of the central nervous system.

Minuses: undesirable consequences taking the drug - asthenia, dizziness, fatigue, headache, drowsiness, dry mouth. It can affect the respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and digestive systems, as well as metabolism and skin.

Kestin

Minuses: the use of Kestin can cause insomnia, abdominal pain, nausea, drowsiness, asthenia, headache, sinusitis, dry mouth.

New, 3rd generation antihistamines

All 3rd generation antihistamines do not have cardiotoxic or sedative effects, so they can be used by people whose activities involve high concentration.

These drugs block H1 receptors and also have an additional effect on allergic manifestations. They are highly selective, do not cross the blood-brain barrier, therefore they are not characterized by negative consequences from the central nervous system, and there are no side effects on the heart.

The presence of additional effects promotes the use of 3rd generation antihistamines for long-term treatment most allergic manifestations.

Gismanal

Advantages: the drug has virtually no sedative effect and does not enhance the effect of taking sleeping pills or alcohol. It also does not affect the ability to drive or mental activity.

Minuses: Gismanal can cause increased appetite, dry mucous membranes, tachycardia, drowsiness, arrhythmia, prolongation of the QT interval, palpitations, collapse.

Trexil

Advantages: lack of sedative and anticholinergic effect, influence on psychomotor activity and well-being of a person. The drug is safe to use by patients with glaucoma and those suffering from prostate disorders.

Telfast

Advantages: does not exhibit sedative properties, does not affect the speed of reactions and concentration, heart function, is not addictive, highly effective against the symptoms and causes of allergic diseases.

Minuses: rare consequences of taking the drug are headache, nausea, dizziness, there are rare reports of shortness of breath, anaphylactic reaction, skin flushing.

Zyrtec

Advantages: effectively prevents the occurrence of edema, reduces capillary permeability, and relieves spasm of smooth muscles. Zyrtec does not have anticholinergic or antiserotonin effects.

Minuses: improper use of the drug can lead to dizziness, migraines, drowsiness, and allergic reactions.

Antihistamines for children

1st generation antihistamines are distinguished by the fact that they quickly manifest their effect medicinal property and are excreted from the body. They are in demand for the treatment of acute manifestations of allergic reactions. They are prescribed in short courses. The most effective of this group are Tavegil, Suprastin, Diazolin, Fenkarol.

A significant percentage of side effects leads to a reduction in the use of these medications for childhood allergies.

2nd generation antihistamines do not cause a sedative effect, act for a longer time and are usually used once a day. Few side effects. Among the drugs in this group, Ketitofen, Fenistil, Cetrin, Erius are used to treat manifestations of childhood allergies.

The 3rd generation of antihistamines for children includes Gismanal, Terfen and others. They are used for chronic allergic processes, since they can remain in the body for a long time. There are no side effects.

Negative consequences:

1st generation: headache, constipation, tachycardia, drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention and lack of appetite;
2nd generation: negative effect on the heart and liver;
3rd generation: none, recommended for use from 3 years of age.

Antihistamines are produced for children in the form of ointments (allergic skin reactions), drops, syrups and tablets for oral administration.

Antihistamines during pregnancy

Natural antihistamines, which include vitamins C, B12, pantothenic, oleic and nicotinic acids, zinc, and fish oil, can help get rid of some allergic symptoms.

The safest antihistamines are Claritin, Zyrtec, Telfast, Avil, but their use must be agreed with a doctor.

Drugs in this group reduce the body’s response to histamine, relieve spasms of smooth muscles, reduce capillary permeability, eliminate tissue swelling, prevent the development and alleviate the course of allergic reactions. Some of them (diphenhydramine, diprazine) have a sedative effect.

Diphenhydramine(Dimedrolum) is one of the main representatives of the group of antihistamines that block Hi-receptors. Prescribed for adults in tablets of 0.03-0.05 g 1-3 times a day, for children - in smaller doses depending on age: up to 2 years - 0.002-0.005 g, up to 6 years - 0.005-0.015 g, from 7 to 12 years - 0.015-0.03 g per dose.

Rp.: Tab. Dimedroli 0.05 N. 20

D.S. 1 tablet 2-3 times a day (for allergic diseases). Treatment course 10 days

Rp.: Sol. Dimedroli I % 1 ml D.t.d. N. 6 in ampull. S. 1 ml intramuscularly

Zepfneiv(Cetirizine). Synonyms: Zirtec, Zirtec, Zyrtec.

It is an antagonist of Hi-histamine receptors. Prescribed when allergic stomatitis, dermatitis, urticaria, Quincke's edema. Adults and children aged 12 years and older are prescribed 0.01 g 1 time per day (in the evening) or 20 drops; children from 2 to 6 years old - 5 mg (1/2 tablet) or 10 drops 1 time per day or 2.5 mg in the morning and evening. For patients with renal failure, it is recommended to reduce the dose of the drug by 2 times. Available in tablets of 0.01 and 0.02 g and in drops in 10 ml bottles.

Diprazine(Diprazinum). Synonyms: Pipolphen, A1-lergan, Antiallersin, Pipolphenum, Promethazine hydro-chloride, etc.

It has high antihistamine and sedative activity, and also enhances the effect of narcotic, hypnotics, analgesics and local anesthetics. Prescribed orally for adults at 0.025 and 0.05 g, intramuscularly at 1-2 ml of a 2.5% solution; for children - depending on age: from 0.005 to 0.01 g 2-3 times a day.

Rp.: Tab. Diprazini 0.025 N. 10

D.S. 1 tablet 2-3 times a day (after meals) for allergic diseases

Rp.: Sol. Diprazini 2.5% 1 ml D.t.d. N. 6 in ampull. S. 1 ml intramuscularly

Suprastin(Suprastin) is an antihistamine that has a sedative effect. Prescribed orally during meals, 0.025 g, 1 tablet 2-3 times a day. In severe cases of allergies and anaphylactic shock, 1-2 ml of a 2% solution (0.02 g) is administered intramuscularly or intravenously.

Rp.: Tab. Suprastini 0.025 N. 20

D.S. 1 tablet 2-3 times a day with meals

Rp.: Sol. Suprastini 2% 1 ml D.t.d. N. 6 in ampull. S. 1 ml intramuscularly

Diazolin(Diazolinum) is used to treat allergic diseases. Unlike diphenhydramine, sup-rastin and diprazine do not have a sedative and hypnotic effect. Prescribed orally after meals for adults 0.05-0.1-0.2 g 1-2 times a day, children 0.02-0.05 g 1-2 times a day.

Rp.: Dragee Diazolini 0.05 N. 20

D.S. 1 tablet per day after meals

Fenkarol(Phencarolum) is an antihistamine that blocks hi-receptors and reduces the content of histamine in tissues. It has high antihistamine activity in the treatment of allergic diseases. Unlike diphenhydramine and diprazine, it does not have a pronounced sedative and hypnotic effect. Prescribed orally after meals, 0.025-0.05 g 3-4 times a day. The course of treatment is 10-20 days. Available in powder and tablet form.

Rp.: Tab. Phencaroli 0.025 N. 50

D.S. 1 tablet 3 times a day

Tavegil(Tavegil). Synonyms: Clemastine, Fenistil, Alagyl, Anhistan, etc.

Antihistamine drug. Its properties are similar to diphenhydramine, but it is more active and lasts longer (8-12 hours). After a single dose, it has a moderate sedative effect: it enhances the effect of sleeping pills and alcohol. While taking Tavegil, you should not drink alcoholic beverages. Prescribe 1 tablet orally 2 times a day, morning and evening. Children 6-12 years old are given 1/3 tablet 2 times a day.

Rp.: Tab. Tavegili 0.001 N. 20

D.S. 1 tablet 2 times a day after meals

Rp.: Tavegili 2 ml

D.t.d. N. 5 in ampull. S. 2 ml intramuscularly

Terfenadine(Terfenadin). Synonyms: Bronal, Ter-fed, Terfena, Trexil, Histadin, Rapidal, etc.

It has an antihistamine effect and blocks Hi-histamine receptors. The chemical structure is similar to fenkarol. Well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The effect of the drug develops 1-2 hours after administration, its maximum effect occurs after 3-4 hours, duration of action is 12 hours. Terfenadine, like fenkarol, does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier and does not have a pronounced sedative effect.

Used in the treatment of allergic drug stomatitis, dermatitis; contact stomatitis, Quincke's edema.

Adults and children over 12 years of age are prescribed 0.06 g (60 mg) 2 times a day, children from 6 to 12 years old - 30 mg 2 times a day.

Available in the form of tablets of 0.06 g (60 mg) and 0.12 g (120 mg) and a suspension containing 0.03 g of the drug in 5 ml (1 teaspoon).

Loratadine(Loratadine). Synonyms: Claritin, C1a-ritin.

Antihistamine drug. Blocks Hi-histamine receptors. The onset of action of the drug is after 30 minutes, the duration of action is 24 hours. Due to the duration of the therapeutic effect, loratadine is classified as a second or third generation antihistamine. Loratadine is not addictive and does not affect the central nervous system. It has antiallergic and antiexudative effects. Reduces capillary permeability, eliminates swelling, relieves spasms of smooth muscles.

Loratadine is used to treat allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria, Quincke's edema, allergic contact stomatitis and dermatitis.

The drug is prescribed orally in tablets or syrup form. Adults and children over 12 years old - 1 tablet or 2 teaspoons of syrup; children from 2 to 12 years old - 1/2 tablet or 1 teaspoon of syrup.

Available in tablets of 0.01 g (10 mg) in a package of 10 pieces or in the form of syrup in 120 ml bottles.

Astemizole(Astemizole). Synonyms: Astelong, Gista-zol, Gistalong, Mibiron, Hismanal, Histamanal, etc.

Antiallergic drug, Hi-histamine receptor blocker. Has some antiserotonin activity. Due to its long-lasting action, astemizole is considered a second-generation antihistamine. Taking the drug once a day is sufficient to suppress allergic reactions for 24 hours.

Used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), urticaria, Quincke's edema and other allergic conditions.

Adults and children over 12 years of age are prescribed 1 tablet - 0.01 g (10 mg) 1 time per day on an empty stomach. In severe cases, the dose is increased to 3 tablets per day. The maximum duration of taking the drug is 7 days. Children aged 6 to 12 years are given 5 mg (1/2 tablet) per day, from 2 to 6 years - 2 mg per 10 kg of body weight.

Available in tablets of 0.01 g (10 mg) in a package of 10 pieces and in the form of a suspension in 50 ml bottles containing 0.005 g (5 mg) of the drug in 5 ml (1 teaspoon).

Cyproheptadine(Cyproheptadine). Synonyms: Peritol, Adekin, Ciprastin, Cyprodin, etc.

Has antihistamine activity (blocks Hj-histamine receptors); has a pronounced antiserotonin (reduces spasmogenic and other symptoms caused by serotonin) and anticholinergic (blocks M-cholinergic receptors) effect.

Cyproheptadine prevents the development and alleviates the course of allergic reactions. It has anti-allergic, anti-exudative and antipruritic effects. Effective in the treatment of itchy dermatoses. Cyproheptadine is used as an antiallergic drug for the treatment of urticaria, Quincke's edema, migraine, vasomotor rhinitis, hay fever, neurodermatitis, drug-induced stomatitis, contact stomatitis and dermatitis.

The drug is prescribed orally: adults - 4 mg (1 tablet) 3-4 times a day, children from 6 months to 2 years - with caution. daily dose 0.4 mg/kg, from 2 to

6 years - up to 6 mg per day (1/3 tablet 3 times a day), from 6 to 14 years - up to 12 mg per day (1 tablet 3 times a day)

Available in tablets of 4 mg in a package of 20 pieces and in the form of syrup in bottles of 100 ml (1 ml contains 0.4 mg of the drug).

Antihistamines (or in simple words Allergy medications) belong to a group of medications 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 are designed to relieve similar symptoms and prevent their occurrence in the future.

IN modern world antiallergic drugs have become widespread; representatives of this group can be found in the medicine cabinet of any family. Every year the pharmaceutical industry expands its range and produces more and more new drugs, the action of which is aimed at combating allergies.

1st generation antihistamines are gradually becoming a thing of the past; they are being replaced by new drugs that are 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 inhibit the production of histamine, which is produced by cells of the immune system. Histamine in the body accumulates in mast cells, basophils and platelets. A large number of these cells are concentrated in skin, mucous membranes of the respiratory organs, next to blood vessels And nerve fibers. Under the influence of an allergen, histamine is released, which, penetrating into the extracellular space and the circulatory system, causes allergic reactions from the most important systems of the body (nervous, respiratory, integumentary).

All antihistamines inhibit the release of histamine and prevent it from attaching to the endings 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 their mechanism of action and duration of 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. Drugs enter into a reversible relationship with H1 receptors, additionally involving cholinergic muscarinic receptors.

Medicines in this group have a quick and pronounced therapeutic effect, have an antiemetic and anti-sickness effect, but it does not last long (from 4 to 8 hours). This explains the need to frequently take high doses of the drug. 1st generation antihistamines can effectively cope with allergy symptoms, but they positive traits are largely offset by significant disadvantages:

• A distinctive characteristic of all drugs in this group is the sedative effect. 1st generation drugs are able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier to the brain, causing drowsiness, muscle weakness, inhibiting the activity of the nervous system.
• The effects of drugs quickly become addictive, which significantly reduces their effectiveness.
• First generation drugs have quite a lot of side effects. Taking pills can cause tachycardia, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention and increase the negative effects of alcohol on the body.
• Due to the sedative effect, medications should not be taken by persons managing vehicles, as well as those whose professional activities require high concentration attention and speed of reaction.

First generation antihistamines include:

1. Diphenhydramine (from 20 to 110 rubles)
2. Diazolin (from 18 to 60 rub.)
3. Suprastin (from 80 to 150 rub.)
4. Tavegil (from 100 to 130 rubles)
5. Fenkarol (from 95 to 200 rubles)

Diphenhydramine

The medicine has quite high antihistamine activity, has an antitussive and antiemetic effect. Effective for hay fever, vasomotor rhinitis, urticaria, seasickness, allergic reactions caused by taking medications.

Diphenhydramine has a local anesthetic effect, so it can replace Lidocaine or Novocaine in case of intolerance.

The disadvantages of the drug include a pronounced sedative effect, short duration therapeutic effects and the ability to cause quite serious adverse reactions (tachycardia, disturbances in the functioning of the vestibular apparatus).

Diazolin

Indications for use are the same as for Diphenhydramine, but the sedative effect of the drug is much less pronounced.

However, when taking the medication, patients may experience drowsiness and slowed 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 urticaria, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and pruritus. The drug can help with severe complications by preventing.

It has high antihistamine activity and has a rapid effect, 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, and 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 confusion. Tavegil in the form of injections is recommended for use in cases of serious complications such as Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock.

Fenkarol

It is taken in cases where 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 the 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 2-3 generation drugs.

2nd generation antihistamines - list

Unlike 1st generation drugs, more modern antihistamines do not have a sedative effect, are not able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and have a depressant effect on the nervous system. 2nd generation drugs do not reduce physical and mental activity and have a rapid therapeutic effect, which lasts for a long time (up to 24 hours), which allows you to take only one dose of the medicine per day.

Other advantages include the absence of addiction, due to which medications can be used for a long time. The therapeutic effect of taking medications lasts for 7 days after discontinuation of the drug.

The main disadvantage of this group is the cardiotoxic effect that develops as a result of blocking potassium channels of the heart muscle. Therefore, 2nd generation drugs are not prescribed to patients with heart disease. vascular problems and elderly patients. In other patients, medication should be accompanied by monitoring of cardiac activity.

Here is a list of 2nd generation antihistamines that are in greatest demand and their prices:

• Allergodil (Azelastine) – from 250 to 400 rubles.
• Claritin (Loratadine) – price from 40 to 200 rubles.
• Semprex (Activastin) – from 100 to 160 rubles.
• Kestin (Ebastin) – from price 120 to 240 rubles.
• Fenistil (Dimetinden) – from 140 to 350 rubles.

Claritin (Loratadine)

This is one of the most popular second generation drugs. It has high antihistamine activity and no sedative effect. The medicine does not enhance the effects of alcohol and combines well with other medications.

The only drug in the group that does not have an adverse effect on the heart. It does not cause addiction, lethargy or drowsiness, which makes it possible to prescribe Loratadine (Claritin) to drivers. Available in the form of tablets and syrup for children.

Kestin

The drug is used to treat allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and urticaria. The advantages of the drug include the absence of sedative effects, the rapid onset of the therapeutic effect and its duration, which lasts for 48 hours. The downsides are adverse reactions (insomnia, dry mouth, abdominal pain, weakness, headache).

Fenistil(drops, gel) – differs from 1st generation drugs in its high antihistamine activity, duration of therapeutic effect and less pronounced sedative effect.

Semprex– has a minimal sedative effect with pronounced antihistamine activity. The therapeutic effect occurs quickly, but it is shorter-term than other drugs in this group.

3rd generation - list of the best drugs

3rd generation antihistamines act as active metabolites of second generation drugs, but unlike them they do not have a cardiotoxic effect and do not affect the functioning of the heart muscle. They have virtually no sedative effect, which allows the use of medications in people whose activities are associated with increased concentration.

Due to the absence of side effects and negative influence on the nervous system, these drugs are recommended for long-term treatment, for example, for seasonal exacerbations of long-term allergies. Drugs in this group are used in various age categories, convenient forms are produced for children (drops, syrup, suspension) to facilitate administration.

New generation antihistamines 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 allow you to cope with the symptoms of chronic allergies, year-round and seasonal rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchial asthma, urticaria, and dermatitis. They are used to relieve acute allergic reactions and are prescribed as part of complex treatment bronchial asthma, dermatological diseases, in particular psoriasis.

The most popular representatives of this group are the following drugs:

• Zyrtec (price from 150 to 250 rubles)
• Zodak (price from 110 to 130 rubles)
• Cetrin (from 150 to 200 rub.)
• Cetirizine (from 50 to 80 rub.)

Cetrin (Cetirizine)

This drug is rightfully considered the “gold standard” in the treatment of 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, itching, urticaria, and angioedema. After a single dose, relief occurs within 15-20 minutes and continues throughout the day. With a course of use, addiction to the drug does not occur, and after cessation of therapy, the therapeutic effect persists for 3 days.

Zyrtec (Zodak)

The drug can not only alleviate the course of allergic reactions, but also prevent their occurrence. By reducing capillary permeability, it effectively eliminates swelling and relieves skin symptoms, relieves itching, allergic rhinitis, inflammation of the conjunctiva.

Taking Zyrtec (Zodak) allows you to stop attacks of bronchial asthma and prevent the development serious complications(Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock). At the same time, failure to comply with the dosage can lead to migraines, dizziness, and drowsiness.

4th generation antihistamines are the latest drugs that can have an immediate effect with no side effects. These are modern and safe means, the effect of which persists for a long time, without in any way affecting the state of the cardiovascular and nervous system.

Despite the minimum side effects and contraindications, before you start taking it, you should consult your doctor, since medications latest generation have certain restrictions for use in children and are not recommended for use in pregnant and lactating women.

The list of new drugs includes:

• Telfast (Fexofenadine) – price from 180 to 360 rubles.
• Erius (Desloratadine) – from 350 to 450 rubles.
• Xyzal (Levocetirizine) – from 140 to 240 rubles.

Telfast

It is highly effective against hay fever, urticaria, and prevents acute reactions(Quincke's edema). Due to the lack of sedative effect, it does not affect the speed of reactions and does not cause drowsiness. If the recommended dosage is followed, it has virtually 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 released in the form of tablets in film casing and syrup intended for children over 12 months. The maximum therapeutic effect is achieved 30 minutes after taking the drug and continues for 24 hours.

Therefore, it is recommended to take only 1 Erius tablet per day. The dosage of syrup is determined by the doctor and depends on the age and weight of the child. The drug has virtually no contraindications (except during pregnancy and lactation) and does not affect concentration or vital condition. important systems body.

Xizal

The effect of using the medicine occurs within 10-15 minutes after administration and lasts for a long time, therefore it is enough to take only 1 dose of the medicine per day.

The drug effectively eliminates swelling of the mucous membrane, itchy skin and rashes, prevents the development of acute allergic reactions. You can be treated with Xyzal for a long time (up to 18 months), it is not addictive and has virtually no side effects.

4th generation antihistamines have proven their effectiveness and safety in practice; they are becoming increasingly popular and are available to a wide range of consumers.

However, you should not self-medicate before purchasing medicine it is necessary to consult a doctor who will select best option taking into account the severity of the disease and possible contraindications.

Children in much to a greater extent what adults are exposed to allergic diseases. 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 an immature immune system, may react acutely to taking the drug, so the child should be monitored by a doctor during the treatment period. For children, medications are produced in convenient dosage forms(in the form of syrup, drops, suspension), which facilitates dosage and does not cause disgust in the child when taken.

Quickly remove acute symptoms Suprastin, Fenistil will help; for longer-term treatment, modern drugs Zyrtec or Ketotifen are usually used, which are approved for use from 6 one month old. Of the latest generation of drugs, the most popular is Erius, which in syrup form can be prescribed to children from 12 months. Medicines such as Claritin and Diazolin can be used from 2 years of age, but the latest generation drugs (Telfast and Xyzal) can only be used from 6 years of age.

The most common drug for treatment infants is Suprastin, the doctor prescribes it in the minimum dosage that can have a therapeutic effect and provide a mild sedative and hypnotic effect. Suprastin is completely safe not only for babies, but also for nursing mothers.

From more modern drugs To eliminate allergic manifestations in children, Zyrtec and Claritin are most often used. These medications last longer, so you can take one dose of the medication throughout the 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.

Medicines of the latest, 4th generation are absolutely contraindicated in any trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding. Among the most safe medicines for allergies during pregnancy include Claritin, Suprastin, Zyrtec.