utorak, 28. lipnja 2011.

About Allergies: Beware of Sedating Antihistamines

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From Daniel More, MD, your Guide to Allergies
I'm always surprised how many of my new patients come to me taking older, sedating antihistamines to treat a wide variety of allergic conditions. Sedating antihistamines, such as over-the-counter Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and prescription Atarax (hydroxyzine), have significant side effects that often outweigh the benefits of taking the medication. This is particularly true for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), which is much more effectively treating with newer, low sedating antihistamines. Not only do sedating antihistamines cause drowsiness, they cause constipation, urinary retention and dry mouth. What's more, in many states in this country, a person can be charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) if an automobile accident is deemed to be their fault while taking a sedating antihistamine. It is true, however, that some allergic conditions, such as urticaria (hives) and pruritus (itching), sometimes respond better to sedating antihistamines, especially doxepin.

Benadryl for Allergies
Benadryl, which is the brand name for the drug diphenhydramine, is classified as a first-generation antihistamine and has been used to treat various allergic diseases for many years. It is available over-the-counter without a prescription, and comes in many generic forms. Despite newer, safer and more effective antihistamines being available over the past 10 to 20 years in the United States, Benadryl continues to be frequently used for allergic rhinitis, urticaria, itching, anaphylaxis, symptoms of the common cold, and as a sleep aid.

Is Hydroxyzine Effective for the Treatment of Allergies?
Hydroxyzine is a first-generation, sedating antihistamine, which means it has similar side effects to Benadryl. It is marketed under the brand names Atarax and Vistaril, but is also available in generic form. Hydroxyzine was originally developed as a sedative during the 1950's, but was found to have significant antihistamine properties.
See More About:  antihistamines  benadryl  hives

Does Doxepin Help for Hives and Itching?
Yes, it does -- but it has strong side effects and needs to be used cautiously. Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant drug that is also a powerful antihistamine, and so is often used for the treatment of chronic hives and itching. Doxepin is able to block two types of histamine receptors, both H1 and H2, and therefore is particularly effective at treating skin allergies, since both types of histamine receptors can be found in the skin. Doxepin is available only by prescription, and the dose varies based on the symptoms being treated.
See More About:  itching  hives  antihistamines



 


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Daniel More, MD
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