What are antihistamines used for?

Antihistamines are primarily used to treat allergies, such as hay fever, hives, itching, and symptoms of allergic reactions (runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes). Some are also used for motion sickness, insomnia, or to relieve cold symptoms.

What are common examples of antihistamine medicines?

Common antihistamines include: First-generation (sedating): Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Chlorpheniramine, Clemastine Second-generation (non-sedating): Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec), Fexofenadine (Allegra)

What is the difference between first-generation and second-generation antihistamines?

First-generation antihistamines can cause more drowsiness and are shorter-acting. Second-generation antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness and usually last longer.

Are antihistamines safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Some antihistamines are considered safe, but it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before taking any, especially during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Can children take antihistamines?

Many antihistamines are approved for use in children, but dosing depends on age and weight. Always consult a pediatrician before using antihistamines in young children.

What are the side effects of antihistamines?

Common side effects include drowsiness (especially with first-generation types), dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.

Can I take antihistamines and drink alcohol?

It’s best to avoid alcohol with antihistamines, especially first-generation types like diphenhydramine, as both can increase drowsiness and impair coordination.

Can I take more than one type of antihistamine at the same time?

Generally, you should not combine different oral antihistamines unless instructed by your healthcare provider, as this increases the risk of side effects without improving efficacy.

Do antihistamines work immediately?

Most oral antihistamines start to work within 30–60 minutes, while nasal or eye antihistamines may work faster.

Can I use antihistamines long-term?

Second-generation antihistamines are often safe for long-term use under medical supervision, but you should see a doctor if you need them daily for extended periods.

Do antihistamines interact with other medications?

Yes, especially first-generation antihistamines, which may interact with sedatives, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and certain antidepressants. Check with your pharmacist or doctor if unsure.

What should I do if I miss a dose of my antihistamine?

Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Don’t double up unless instructed by your doctor.

Can antihistamines be used for itching not caused by allergies?

Yes, antihistamines can sometimes relieve itching due to other causes, like insect bites or skin irritations, but always check with your provider for chronic or severe itching.

Are there non-drowsy antihistamines?

Yes, second-generation antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine) are less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation drugs.

Antihistamine Medicines

Antihistamine medicines are a class of drugs used to treat symptoms caused by the body’s release of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions. They work by blocking the action of histamine at H1 receptors, relieving allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and hives (urticaria). Antihistamine medicines are commonly used, effective drugs that relieve mild to moderate allergy symptoms by blocking histamine. They are available in sedating (first-generation) and non-sedating (second-generation) forms, and are a mainstay for allergy management, as well as itching and some forms of rash. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have questions.

Show
24
36
48

View as

Sale

from $ 3.95

Diphenhydramine Injection 50 mg per 1 mL Vial For Allergic Reactions by Hikma (Rx)
Hikma

3 reviews

Diphenhydramine Injection is a fast-acting, reliable medication widely used in clinical settings to treat severe allergic reactions, motion sicknes...
View full details
Sale 2%

Original price $ 6.95

Current price $ 6.80

Loratadine 10 mg Allergy Relief Medicine, Non-Drowsy 100 Tablets
Ohm

6 reviews

Loratadine is a medication that is used to treat allergies. It is a non-sedating antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine. His...
View full details
Sale 14%

Original price $ 13.95

Current price $ 12.00

Diphenhydramine HCI Oral Solution 12.5 mg Per 5 mL, Cherry Flavor 16 oz
Rising Pharmaceuticals

No reviews

Diphenhydramine HCl Oral Solution 12.5 mg is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. It is ...
View full details
Sale 38%

Original price $ 15.95

Current price $ 9.95

Cetirizine Allergy Relief Tablets 10 mg, 100 Tablets (Compare to Zyrtec)
Rising Pharmaceuticals

No reviews

Cetirizine Allergy Relief Tablets 10 mg are an antihistamine used to alleviate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes,...
View full details
Sale 37%

Original price $ 5.95

Current price $ 3.75

Anti-Itch Cream (Extra Strength) Diphenhydramine HCl and Zinc Acetate Cream 0.1%, Maximum Strength 1 oz
Padagis US

5 reviews

Anti-Itch Diphenhydramine HCl and Zinc Acetate Cream is used to relieve itching and discomfort from skin irritations, such as insect bites, rashes,...
View full details

Filters

Antihistamine Medicines

Diphenhydramine Injection 50 mg per 1 mL Vial For Allergic Reactions by Hikma (Rx)

Loratadine 10 mg Allergy Relief Medicine, Non-Drowsy 100 Tablets

Diphenhydramine HCI Oral Solution 12.5 mg Per 5 mL, Cherry Flavor 16 oz

Cetirizine Allergy Relief Tablets 10 mg, 100 Tablets (Compare to Zyrtec)

Anti-Itch Cream (Extra Strength) Diphenhydramine HCl and Zinc Acetate Cream 0.1%, Maximum Strength 1 oz

Added to your cart: