If you are someone who suffers from allergies or allergic reactions frequently, you may have heard of antihistamines. Antihistamines are medications that help alleviate allergic symptoms by blocking the action of histamine in the body.

Histamine is a chemical that the body releases in response to an allergen to trigger an immune response. Antihistamines can be taken orally, applied topically, or injected. Here are five essential things to keep in mind while taking antihistamines:.

1. Types of Antihistamines

There are two types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation.

: First-generation antihistamines

These are the older types of antihistamines and are known to cause drowsiness. Some of the most commonly used first-generation antihistamines include diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, and doxylamine.

: Second-generation antihistamines

These are newer types of antihistamines and are less likely to cause drowsiness. They are known to have a longer duration of action and are often preferred over first-generation antihistamines.

Some of the most commonly used second-generation antihistamines include loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine.

2. Side Effects of Antihistamines

While antihistamines can be helpful in alleviating allergy symptoms, they can also cause side effects. Some of the common side effects of antihistamines include:.

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Nausea
Vomiting
Headache
Blurred vision

If you experience any of these side effects while taking antihistamines, you should consult your doctor immediately.

3. Interactions with Other Medications

Antihistamines can interact with other medications and cause adverse effects. You should talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking before starting antihistamines. Some of the medications that can interact with antihistamines include:.

Sedatives or tranquilizers
Antidepressants
High blood pressure medications
Acid reflux medications
Antibiotics

Your doctor will be able to advise you on whether it is safe to take antihistamines with other medications.

4. Dosage

The dosage of antihistamines depends on several factors, including age, weight, and the severity of the allergy. You should always follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or on the medication label.

Taking more than the recommended amount of antihistamines can cause serious side effects such as seizures and hallucinations.

5. Antihistamines and Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor before taking antihistamines. While some antihistamines are safe to use during pregnancy, others can cause harm to the developing fetus.

Your doctor will be able to advise you on the safety of using antihistamines during pregnancy or breastfeeding.