Nasal Allergy Medications (cont.)
What are common side effects of antihistamines?
Since the first generation antihistamines can penetrate
the brain tissue, they generally cause more side effects
than the second generation drugs, which usually cannot
enter the central nervous system. Drowsiness is the most
noticeable side effect, but this is sometimes desirable.
For example, it may be useful when nighttime symptoms prevent restful
sleep. During the day, however, this effect can cause
problems.
Allergy Alert
Be cautious about driving a car or operating a machine
when using OTC antihistamines. Do not take any
tranquilizers or drink alcohol along with these drugs. The
combination may promote more drowsiness. Also, check with
your doctor before taking an antihistamine if you have
glaucoma or thyroid, heart, or prostate
problems.
The first
generation antihistamines may also cause troublesome anticholinergic effects
such as heart palpitations, difficulty urinating, constipation, dry
mouth, and nervousness. These side effects usually occur
when the medication is taken at higher than recommended
doses.
The second generation of antihistamines currently on the
market has few, if any, significant side effects at the
recommended doses.
Allergy Assist
Antihistamines may be used for nasal symptoms in patients with
asthma. It was previously thought that these drugs would dry up the
airways in the patient's bronchial tubes and aggravate the
asthma. However, there is no good evidence supporting
this notion. Additionally, as you will learn, improving
nasal symptoms may benefit patients with
asthma.
Next: What are decongestants? »
- diphenhydramine, Benadryl - Explains the medication diphenhydramine (Benadryl), a drug used for the relief of nasal and non-nasal symptoms of various allergic conditions such as seasonal allergic rhinitis.
- Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip - Information on post nasal drip and chronic rhinitis includes symptoms such as itchy runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, ears, and throat, and nasal congestion.
- fluticasone propionate nasal inhaler-spray, Flonase, Veramyst - Learn about the nasal spray drug fluticasone (Flonase, Veramyst) used to treat non-allergic and allergic rhinitis and its symptoms like a stuffy and runny nose.
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