Anxiety 02

Azelastine (Astelin, Optivar)

First antihistamine nasal spray. Indicated in seasonal allergic rhinitis. Works as well as oral antihistamines for itchy, runny nose, and sneezing. Tastes bitter. Side effects: Low incidence of sedative; however, the bottle should carry a sticker warning of potential drowsiness. Stable for three months after the bottle is opened.

Chlorpheniramine-Hydrocodone (Tussionex)

Popular drug and effective treatment for coughs. High potential for abuse; has a high street value.

Chlorpheniramine-Hydrocodone-Pseudoephedrine (Zutripro)

Very popular drug. Impairs thinking and slows reactions. Alcohol increases these side effects. Works well for treating coughs but has significant abuse potential.

Clemastine (Tavist Allergy)

Only drug approved by the food & drug administration (FDA) for cold symptoms. The least-sedating over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine.

Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Not as sedating as many other antihistamines. Studies have not reported any arrhythmias or other serious reactions in patients who use this drug.

Loratadine (Claritin)

OTC drug since 2002. Desloratadine (Clarinex) requires a prescription. Desloratadine is a long-acting metabolite of loratadine. Has additional anti-inflammatory properties. Should not be given with erythromycin or ketoconazole.

Olopatadine (Pataday, Patanase, Patanol)

Antihistamine spray for allergic rhinitis in patients six years and older. Available in nasal and ophthalmic forms. Should be used as rescue therapy for allergy symptoms. Can cause a bitter taste and sleepiness due to its antihistamine properties.

Mast Cell (White Blood Cell)

Antihistaminic release that can be found in the skin. Function: These cells release granules filled with chemicals that cause inflammation, such as histamine. People can also experience persistent problems with inflammation if they are born with or develop too many mast cells in a rare condition called mastocytosis.

Allergic Reaction

Acquired, abnormal over-reaction by the immune system to an otherwise harmless substance that results in hypersensitivity.

Mild Allergic Reaction

Typically results in local dermatological symptoms (face/neck). Nasal mucosa/congestion are also common. Symptoms may take minutes, hours, or even days to develop. Effects disappear with time or treatment.

Moderate Allergic Reaction

Effects include those in a mild reaction but more pronounced. Respiratory and gastrointestinal systems are usually involved. Symptoms may take minutes, hours, or even days to develop. Effects might disappear over time or increase in severity, depending on response.

Severe Allergic Reaction

Causes massive inflammatory response in the respiratory, integumentary, circulatory, and gastrointestinal systems due to massive histamine release. Effects are immediate—seconds or minutes. If not treated, could lead to anaphylactic shock (hard to breathe) and death.