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ANTIHISTAMINES

These are drugs which block the action of a chemical called histamine which is found in the body. Histamine is produced by most cells and especially by sensitive cells under the skin and in the respiratory system. When certain foreign antigens (protein substances which lead to the production of antibodies) enter the body, antibodies are made by cells. These antibodies attempt to inactivate, or neutralize, the offending antigens and, as a result, a chemical called histamine may be released by other cells. Histamine causes the characteristic allergic symptoms when it is liberated from cells: itching, hives, allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, high fever, and, in some very serious cases, anaphylactic shock.

Antihistamines, by blocking the action of histamine in the body, can relieve the allergic symptoms which histamine produces. Antihistamines cannot cure the allergic reaction, but they can relieve its symptoms. Some potentially dangerous side effects of antihistamines are drowsiness, sedation, and blurred vision. Examples of antihistamines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl), meclizine (Bonamine), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trime-ton) and tripelennamine (Pyribenzamine).