What is azelastine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Azelastine is an antihistamine, a chemical that blocks the effects of histamine, another chemical that is responsible for some of the symptoms in allergic reactions. Azelastine is chemically different from other antihistamines and is used only as a nasal inhaler for the treatment of …
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triamcinolone acetonide nasal (Nasacort) Use, Side Effects & Dosage
What is triamcinolone acetonide nasal inhaler-spray, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid. It is administered either as an oral metered-dose inhaler for the treatment of asthma (Azmacort), as a topical preparation for the skin (Kenalog; Aristocort) or as a nasal spray (Nasacort AQ) for relieving symptoms of rhinitis. Corticosteroids are naturally …
Read More »Allegra (fexofenadine) Allergy Drug Side Effects & Uses
What is fexofenadine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fexofenadine is an oral, "second generation" antihistamine that is used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergy and hives. It is similar to the other second generation antihistamines loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and azelastine (Astelin). Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many of the signs and …
Read More »loratadine (Claritin, Alavert) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is loratadine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Loratadine is a long-acting, non-sedating antihistamine that is used for the treatment of allergies. Histamine is a chemical that causes many of the signs and symptoms of an allergy. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine on their …
Read More »Oral Antihistamines: Side Effects for Allergy Drugs
What are oral antihistamines? The term, antihistamine generally is used for medications used to treat various symptoms believed to be caused by histamine, for example, as part of the common cold, including: Congestion Runny nose Sneezing Itchy throat Hives Skin rashes Itching Itchy or watery eyes (A second type of antihistamine is used primarily for suppressing acid production in the …
Read More »Antihistamines vs. Corticosteroids for Allergy and Inflammation
What’s the Difference Between Antihistamines and Corticosteroids? Antihistamines and corticosteroids are used to treat allergy symptoms such as itching, hives, skin rashes, and itchy or watery eyes. Antihistamines also may be used to treat motion sickness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and anxiety. Corticosteroids are also used for their strong anti-inflammatory effects to treat conditions such as arthritis, colitis, asthma, and bronchitis. …
Read More »fluticasone (Flonase) Side Effects, OTC, Directions, and Abuse
What is fluticasone? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluticasone is a man-made corticosteroid. The exact mechanism of action of fluticasone is not known; however, it stimulates glucocorticoid receptors in humans that produces a potent anti-inflammatory response. Fluticasone also works on multiple cells and mediators that are responsible for the inflammatory symptoms of allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, etc). …
Read More »diphenhydramine, (Benadryl), Antihistamine, Side Effects, Dosing, Uses
What is diphenhydramine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used for treating allergic reactions. Histamine is released by the body during several types of allergic reactions and–to a lesser extent–during some viral infections, such as the common cold. When histamine binds to receptors on cells, it stimulates changes within the cells that lead to …
Read More »terfenadine (Seldane): Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing
What brand names are available for terfenadine? Seldane
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