Antiallergics, also known as antihistamines, are a group of medications used to treat allergies. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, the chemical released by the body in response to an allergen, thus reducing or preventing allergic symptoms.
When an allergen, such as pollen, dust, or certain food, triggers an allergic reaction, histamine is released by mast cells in the body. Histamine binds to specific receptors on cells, causing inflammation, swelling, itching, and other allergic symptoms. Antiallergics inhibit this process by preventing histamine from binding to its receptors and thereby reducing the impact of the immune response.
Antiallergics are available in various forms, including tablets, liquid suspensions, nasal sprays, and eye drops. They are commonly used to relieve symptoms of hay fever, allergic rhinitis, hives, and allergic conjunctivitis. These medications can help alleviate itching, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and skin rashes associated with allergies.
It is important to note that antiallergics may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision. Therefore, it is advised to use caution when operating machinery or driving, especially when starting a new antiallergic medication.
In summary, antiallergics are medications that block the effects of histamine, providing relief from allergic symptoms. They are commonly used to treat allergies, including hay fever, hives, and allergic rhinitis, and are available in various forms for different routes of administration.
