Long-term antihistamine therapy revisited

© Medpharm. Allergic diseases are increasing all over the world, now affecting up to 40% of the population. The most frequently occurring allergic conditions include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), chronic sinusitis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic urticaria. The literature suggests that second-generation histamine 1 (H1) antihistamines are the preferred first-line therapy for most chronic allergic conditions, including allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. Patients taking these antihistamines report little to no adverse effects with long-term continuous treatment. Second-generation H1-antihistamines have been shown to exert an anti-inflammatory effect, and continuous administration may improve their efficacy.