Synonyms
H1 blocker; Histamine antagonist
Definition
Allergic rhinitis is a pervasive disease in the USA, in which histamine plays a key role in the pathophysiology (Benninger et al. 2010). Multiple histamine receptors are recognized, and histamine 1 (H1) receptors are the most prominently associated with allergic symptoms. Blocking H1 receptors has demonstrated a decrease in the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis (rhinorrhea, sneezing, and itching). Antihistamines are a mainstay in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, and their use has been associated with improved quality of life (Wallace et al. 2008). Antihistamines have been used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis for over 60 years.
Mechanism of Action
Histamine (an autocoid amine synthesized from histidine) is primarily stored in mast cells. Mast cells undergo degranulation when its high-affinity receptors (FcεRI) are bound and cross-linked by IgE-bound antigens. Once histamine is released, it will initiate an allergic...
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LaBossiere, M., Barboza, J. (2014). Oral Antihistamines. In: Mackay, I.R., Rose, N.R., Ledford, D.K., Lockey, R.F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Medical Immunology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-9194-1_238
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-9194-1_238
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