Praktické lekárnictvo 2/2013

Overview of H1 antihistamines intended not only for seasonal pollen allergy

Novel H1 antihistamines without sedative effects and with reduced side effects represent a major progress in the treatment of allergic conditions (pollinosis, urticaria, eczema, anaphylaxis). They block adverse effects of histamine with their mechanism of action and inhibit the development of allergic inflammation with their immunomodulatory effects, thus having not only therapeutic, but also preventive effect. The types of histamine receptors known to date are mentioned, a terminological note is presented and individual chemical groups of H1 antihistamines are discussed from a pharmaceutical-chemical perspective. Also included are selected chemical structures of newer drugs (bilastine and rupatadine intended for oral administration; bepotastine and alcaftadine for topical administration) as well as an overview of drugs of this pharmacotherapeutic group registered in the Czech Republic.

Keywords: histamine, antihistamines.