Antihistamines As the name indicates, an antihistamine counters the effects of histamine, which is released by the mast cells in the body''s tissues and contributes to allergy symptoms. For many years, antihistamines have proven useful in relieving sneezing and itching in the nose, throat, and eyes and in reducing nasal swelling and drainage. Many people who take antihistamines experience some distressing side effects: drowsiness and loss of alertness and coordination. In children, such reactions can be misinterpreted as behavior problems. During the last few years, however, antihistamines that cause fewer of these side effects have become available by prescription. These new nonsedating antihistamines are as effective as other antihistamines in preventing histamine-induced symptoms, but do so without causing sleepiness.

Patients who were given this medication recorded a greater reduction in antihistamine use after the treatment than those given a placebo. this medication is free from drowsy side effects. What this medication Patients Say What Patients Said After More Than One Year In 11 years of service to my company, this is the first year I worked without a day of sick time. Jaime C. Allergies seem to be excellent this year. Thanks for the study. Robin S In 1995, I got by very well. Ben H. I experienced fewer problems...since I participated in the study. Evea J. I always woke up congested and would sneeze like crazy when I mowed the lawn. Since I was treated, my allergy symptoms have gone away completely. E. A. What Patients Said After More Than Six Months Allergies are much better than before. Michael G. I am the best! George G. Feel a lot better than last year. Mark B. I am doing a great deal better Louis P.

In 1992 in El Paso, TX a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study of subjects (n=130) with allergic rhinitis in 1992-1993 was conducted. The average IgE level of the placebo treated subjects remained essentially flat, while the average IgE level for active treated subjects was reduced significantly from baseline to Day 30.7 In 1993 in El Paso, TX, valid subjects (n=66) returned a second set of symptom diaries which they had completed for days 365 to 395 (the same period, one year after the first set of symptom diaries). The active group had mean symptom scores showing statistically significant decreases from 1992 to 1993. The placebo group had increased symptoms in 1993. (The relevant pollen counts at the study site in 1993 were much higher than in 1992, leading to expectation of higher symptoms.)7