SECOND-GENERATION H1-ANTIHISTAMINES: INDICATIONS, EFFICACY AND SAFETY

Abstract

Histamine as a mediator plays an important role in the pathophysiology of allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. The effects of histamine occur through H1 receptors. This action produce allergic inflammation symptoms: pruritus, urticaria rash of the skin, bronchoconstriction, irritation and congestion in the nose. First and second-generation antihistamine drugs are widely used to reduce the allergic symptoms. This rewiev will provide valuable information about the differences between first and second-generation antihistamines, therefore focusing on the indications, effectiveness and safety of the second-generation drugs.