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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about the medicine. The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that came with your medicine. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Here are some examples of antihistamines. For each item in the list, the generic name is first, followed by examples of brand names. Antihistamines help relieve sneezing, a runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. Nondrowsy antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are safe for most people and cause few side effects. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) may have more side effects. Side effects may include: If you have side effects, stop taking the medicine and call your doctor. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine may not be safe for young children, older adults, or people who have certain health problems. They may make young children very sleepy or may stimulate the nervous system, causing hyperactivity. All medicines can cause side effects. Many people don't have side effects. And minor side effects sometimes go away after a while. But sometimes side effects can be a problem or can be serious. If you're having problems with side effects, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to lower your dose or change to a different medicine. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of side effects, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Antihistamines that are taken by mouth (oral) work better than those that are applied directly to the skin (topical) because a pill or capsule contains a specific dose of medicine. The dose in a cream or ointment depends on how much is applied at one time and is harder to control. Too much antihistamine absorbed through the skin can be toxic, especially to children. The use of cream or ointment antihistamines is not reliable and not recommended. Don't give any antihistamines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends not using over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in children younger than age 2. The FDA also recommends avoiding these medicines for children younger than age 4.footnote 1 If you use these medicines, always follow the directions about how much to use based on age and, in some cases, weight. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not take oral antihistamines when you are driving, are operating machinery, or need to be alert. They can make you sleepy. Use caution if you have other health problems, such as glaucoma, epilepsy, or an enlarged prostate. Antihistamines can cause your other health problems to get worse. And they may interact with other medicines, such as antidepressants, sedatives, and tranquilizers. Read the package carefully, and ask your pharmacist or doctor to help you choose a medicine that will not cause problems. Antihistamines are often combined with a decongestant in one product. These medicines may not be safe for young children or for people who have certain health problems. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. That information will help prevent serious problems. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of warnings, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Current as of: October 25, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: October 25, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Antihistamines
About These Medicines
What are some examples?
Why are antihistamines used?
What about side effects?
General information about side effects
What are some cautions about NSAIDs?
General cautions for all medicines
Related Information
References
Citations
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.