How to Compare Anti-Inflammation Antihistamines

Antihistamines are anti-inflammation drugs that work by countering the histamine produced in your body during an allergic reaction. Anti-inflammation antihistamines displace the histamine molecules from your body's cells, then form a protective shield around the cells so that histamine cannot inflame the cell and cause an allergic reaction. So-called "first generation" antihistamine drugs were invented during the 1930's. "Second generation" antihistamines, developed in the 1990's, have fewer side effects and are more effective than earlier ones. "Third generation" antihistamines are being developed now.

Instructions

• 1

  Check which symptoms each of the anti-inflammatory antihistamines you're comparing will treat. Antihistamines can be used to help sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, seasonal allergic rhinitis, hives, rashes, itching and coughs. Make sure you choose the antihistamine that will treat your symptoms.

• 2

  Compare the side effects of each anti-inflammatory antihistamine. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, headache, upset stomach, nervousness, loss of appetite, fatigue, dry mouth, difficulty urinating and disturbed coordination.

• 3

  Check to see how, and how often, you will need to take each antihistamine. Some drugs require you to drink a full glass of water when you take them, and they stipulate whether you can take them with food or on an empty stomach. Some drugs last for up to 12 hours, and others must be taken more often.

• 4

  Check the drug interactions of each antihistamine to make sure that it won't interfere with other drugs or supplements that you're taking.

• 5

  Check the FDA pregnancy category of the anti-inflammation antihistamine if you're pregnant. Do not take any drug that is in category C unless your doctor directs you to do so.

• 6

  Choose an anti-inflammation antihistamine that treats all of your symptoms, has few side-effects, is convenient for you to take, is safe for pregnancy if you're pregnant, and will not interfere with your other drugs or supplements.