Self-Test on Antihistamines

Flashcards reviewing key terms and definitions related to antihistamines, their mechanisms of action, indications, warnings, and adverse effects.

Antihistamines

Drugs that inhibit the activity of histamine receptors.

H1 Receptors

Histamine receptors found in various tissues involved in allergic reactions.

Diphenhydramine

An antihistamine brand named Benadryl, used for symptomatic relief of allergies.

Indications for Diphenhydramine

Includes relief of allergies, anaphylaxis, insomnia, and motion sickness.

Mechanism of Action for Diphenhydramine

Antagonizes H1 receptors by competing with histamines.

CNS Depression

Major warning associated with Diphenhydramine usage.

Adverse Effects of Diphenhydramine

Includes chest tightness, CNS effects, and respiratory issues.

Contraindications for Diphenhydramine

Includes neonates, breastfeeding, and hypersensitivity.

Cetirizine

An antihistamine under the brand names Zyrtec Allergy and Zyrtec, indicated for allergic rhinitis.

Mechanism of Action for Cetirizine

Competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites.

Adverse Effects of Cetirizine

Includes drowsiness, fatigue, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Fexofenadine

An antihistamine available as Allegra, used for upper respiratory allergies.

Mechanism of Action for Fexofenadine

It competes with histamine for binding at H1-receptors.

Warnings for Fexofenadine

Use with caution in patients with renal impairment.

Loratadine

An antihistamine available as Alavert and Claritin, used for allergic rhinitis.

Adverse Effects of Loratadine

Includes potential sedation and drowsiness, especially with alcohol.

Clemastine

Antihistamine with indications for allergic symptoms.

Levocetirizine

An antihistamine with indications similar to Cetirizine.

Azelastine

An intranasal antihistamine indicated for allergic rhinitis.

Olopatadine

An intranasal antihistamine used to treat allergic conjunctivitis.

Intranasal Antihistamines

Formulations of antihistamines applied in the nasal cavity to alleviate allergy symptoms.