Antihistamines are common medications used to relieve allergic symptoms such as hay fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis and other reactions.
Most antihistamines can be purchased through registered
local or online pharmacies, but some are available only after providing
prescription.
There are several types of antihistamines, but they are
categorised mainly in two groups – Older antihistamines and newer
antihistamines. Older medicines make you feel sleepy as they carry sedating
effects, while newer ones are non-drowsy hayfever tablets that make you less
sleepy.
Chlorphenamine, promethazine and hydroxyzine are sedative
antihistamines. No drowsy hayfever medicines include Cetirizine, Fexofenadine
and Loratadine.
How they work?
Hayfever is triggered by an allergen called pollen. When
pollen enters the body, an allergic reaction takes place, wherein the body
releases histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation. Antihistamines stop
the body from releasing histamine by acting on histamine receptors. Once
histamine secretion is stopped, the inflammation subsides, thereby reducing
hayfever symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, nasal
discharge and headache.
There is not much evidence on suggesting the best type of
antihistamine to relieve hayfever. Non drowsy hayfever tablets are typically
the best option, as they are less likely to make you drowsy. However, some
sedative antihistamines are better if you hayfever symptoms affect your sleep.
Your GP is the right person to advise you the best antihistamine.
How to use?Antihistamines are to be used under the supervision of your
GP, irrespective of drowsy or non-drowsy ones. You need to follow all
directions carefully before and while using these strong hayfever tablets. Ask
your GP when and how to take oral antihistamines.
Some antihistamines may cause dry mouth, blur vision, scanty
urination and weakness. Talk to your GP in case of any side effect that
persists for longer period of time.
If
you are looking of effective and strongest hayfever tablet UK, visit Pharmacy
Outlet. This UK’s registered online pharmacy deals in OTC as well as
prescription antihistamines. Make sure you check with your GP before using any
antihistamine.