NiHowdy > Drug Classes > Antihistamines

Browse Medications by Drug Class: Antihistamines

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Antihistamines?

Antihistamines are medications used to treat conditions caused by the body's release of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions, inflammation, and gastric acid production. These medications work by blocking histamine receptors in the body, preventing or reducing symptoms like itching, swelling, and congestion. Antihistamines are classified into two main types: H1 blockers, used for allergies and inflammation, and H2 blockers, used for reducing stomach acid. A unique characteristic of antihistamines is their versatility, with applications ranging from seasonal allergies to gastric reflux. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to antihistamines, empowering patients to manage a variety of conditions effectively.

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List of drugs in Antihistamines

Drug Name	More Information	NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate

Azelastine HCl	Azelastine HCl Information	Azelastine HCl Pricing
Azelastine-Fluticasone	Azelastine-Fluticasone Information	Azelastine-Fluticasone Pricing
Bepotastine Besilate	Bepotastine Besilate Information	Bepotastine Besilate Pricing
Bepreve	Bepreve Information	Bepreve Pricing
Carbinoxamine Maleate	Carbinoxamine Maleate Information	Carbinoxamine Maleate Pricing
Cetirizine HCl	Cetirizine HCl Information	Cetirizine HCl Pricing
Clarinex	Clarinex Information	Clarinex Pricing
Clarinex-D 12 Hour	Clarinex-D 12 Hour Information	Clarinex-D 12 Hour Pricing
Clemastine Fumarate	Clemastine Fumarate Information	Clemastine Fumarate Pricing
Cyproheptadine HCl	Cyproheptadine HCl Information	Cyproheptadine HCl Pricing
Desloratadine	Desloratadine Information	Desloratadine Pricing
Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate	Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate Information	Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate Pricing
Di-Phen	Di-Phen Information	Di-Phen Pricing
Diphen	Diphen Information	Diphen Pricing
diphenhydrAMINE HCl	diphenhydrAMINE HCl Information	diphenhydrAMINE HCl Pricing
Dymista	Dymista Information	Dymista Pricing
Epinastine HCl	Epinastine HCl Information	Epinastine HCl Pricing
Gilphex TR	Gilphex TR Information	Gilphex TR Pricing
hydrOXYzine HCl	hydrOXYzine HCl Information	hydrOXYzine HCl Pricing
hydrOXYzine Pamoate	hydrOXYzine Pamoate Information	hydrOXYzine Pamoate Pricing
Karbinal ER	Karbinal ER Information	Karbinal ER Pricing
Lastacaft	Lastacaft Information	Lastacaft Pricing
Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride	Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride Information	Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride Pricing
Olopatadine HCl	Olopatadine HCl Information	Olopatadine HCl Pricing
Patanase	Patanase Information	Patanase Pricing
Phenergan	Phenergan Information	Phenergan Pricing
Promethazine HCl	Promethazine HCl Information	Promethazine HCl Pricing
Promethazine VC	Promethazine VC Information	Promethazine VC Pricing
Promethazine-DM	Promethazine-DM Information	Promethazine-DM Pricing
Pseudoeph-Bromphen-DM	Pseudoeph-Bromphen-DM Information	Pseudoeph-Bromphen-DM Pricing
Pyrilamine Maleate	Pyrilamine Maleate Information	Pyrilamine Maleate Pricing
Ryaltris	Ryaltris Information	Ryaltris Pricing
RyClora	RyClora Information	RyClora Pricing
RyVent	RyVent Information	RyVent Pricing
Vistaril	Vistaril Information	Vistaril Pricing
Zerviate	Zerviate Information	Zerviate Pricing

Brief history about Antihistamines?

The first antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, were introduced in the 1940s and marked a significant breakthrough in allergy treatment. Over time, newer antihistamines with fewer side effects, such as loratadine and cetirizine, were developed. The discovery of H2 blockers in the 1970s, like ranitidine, expanded antihistamine applications to gastric acid-related conditions. Today, antihistamines are widely used for allergic reactions, chronic urticaria, and acid reflux. NiHowdy simplifies access to these versatile medications, ensuring affordability for all patients.

How do Antihistamines work?

Antihistamines work by blocking histamine from binding to its receptors. H1 blockers prevent histamine from triggering allergic symptoms, such as runny nose, itching, and hives. H2 blockers reduce histamine-stimulated acid production in the stomach, alleviating conditions like heartburn and gastric ulcers. For example, loratadine is a non-drowsy H1 blocker used for allergies, while famotidine is an H2 blocker effective in managing acid reflux. NiHowdy provides affordable access to antihistamines, ensuring patients receive effective treatment for their conditions.

What are Antihistamines used to treat?

Motion Sickness

First-generation H1 blockers like dimenhydrinate and meclizine are effective in preventing and treating motion sickness.

Acid Reflux and Gastric Ulcers

H2 blockers like famotidine and ranitidine are used to reduce stomach acid production, alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and promoting healing of gastric ulcers.

Cold and Flu Symptoms

Antihistamines are included in many over-the-counter cold and flu medications to reduce sneezing, runny nose, and congestion.

Skin Conditions

Topical and oral antihistamines are used to treat itching and inflammation caused by conditions like eczema and insect bites.

Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever)

H1 blockers like loratadine and cetirizine are commonly used to manage symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.

Chronic Urticaria (Hives)

Antihistamines like fexofenadine and diphenhydramine provide relief from chronic hives by reducing itching and swelling.

Who should consider Antihistamines medications?

Adults

Antihistamines are widely prescribed for adults with allergies, acid reflux, or other histamine-related conditions. They provide effective relief and improve quality of life. NiHowdy ensures adults can access these treatments affordably and conveniently.

Children

In pediatric cases, antihistamines may be used to treat allergies, cold symptoms, or hives. Doses are carefully adjusted based on weight and age to ensure safety and efficacy. NiHowdy supports families with cost-effective solutions and reliable resources for managing pediatric conditions.

Seniors

Seniors benefit significantly from antihistamines for managing conditions like acid reflux or chronic urticaria. However, older adults require careful monitoring for potential side effects, such as drowsiness or confusion, especially with first-generation antihistamines. NiHowdy simplifies access to antihistamines for seniors, offering affordable options tailored to their unique needs.

Are Antihistamines safe?

Antihistamines are generally safe when used as directed. Common side effects of first-generation antihistamines include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Newer-generation antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness. H2 blockers are generally well-tolerated but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions. NiHowdy provides safe and affordable access to antihistamines, supported by expert guidance to manage these risks responsibly.

Can I take Antihistamines during pregnancy?

Certain antihistamines, such as loratadine and cetirizine, are considered safe during pregnancy for managing allergies and hives. H2 blockers like ranitidine may also be used for acid reflux during pregnancy. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice. NiHowdy provides cost-effective access to expert guidance and alternative treatments for pregnant patients.

Are Antihistamines safe to take while lactating?

Many antihistamines are considered safe during lactation, particularly second-generation H1 blockers like loratadine and cetirizine, which have minimal transfer into breast milk. H2 blockers like famotidine are also generally safe. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for specific recommendations. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to trusted information and safe treatment options for breastfeeding parents.

Are Antihistamines controlled substances?

Antihistamines are not classified as controlled substances and are widely available over the counter for many formulations. Prescription versions are also available for stronger or long-term treatments. NiHowdy simplifies the prescription process, ensuring patients receive these critical medications affordably and responsibly.

Side effects of Antihistamines?

Common side effects of first-generation antihistamines include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Newer-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine, are less likely to cause drowsiness. H2 blockers may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea. Rare but serious risks include allergic reactions or interactions with other medications. Patients experiencing severe side effects should consult their healthcare provider immediately. NiHowdy helps patients manage these risks with expert-backed support and affordable care options.

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Cost considerations and insurance coverage for Antihistamines

The cost of antihistamines varies depending on the specific medication and formulation (e.g., oral, topical, or injectable). Generic options like loratadine and famotidine are generally affordable, and many insurance plans cover these medications for approved indications. NiHowdy offers discounts, rebates, and Bitcoin rewards to ensure these treatments remain accessible and cost-effective.

How do I get rebates on Antihistamines?

NiHowdy's Bitcoin rebate program for antihistamine prescriptions offers patients a unique opportunity to save on healthcare costs while earning potential financial growth. This innovative approach makes managing allergies, reflux, and other histamine-related conditions both affordable and rewarding, improving access to critical care while building long-term value.