Learning unit: H[1] antihistamines

Impact of the learning unit

H[1] antihistamines are indispensable drugs in the treatment of allergies. They block histamine H1
receptors, preventing the major mediator of allergic reactions - histamine.

Important terms

histamine receptors

antihistamines

H[1] antihistamines

H[1] antihistamines of 1st generation

                                                dimetinden

                                                promethazine

                                                moxastine

                                               ketotifen

                                H[1] antihistamines of 2nd generation

                                                cetirizine

                                                loratadine

fexofenadine

azelastine

levocabastine

                                H[1] antihistamines of 3rd generation

                                                levocetirizine

                                               desloratadine

bilastine

rupatadine

H[3] antihistamines

betahistine

paradoxical stimulation


Learning outcomes


Student knows the principles of antagonizing the effects of histamine.


Student will present examples of antihistamines of the 1st - 3rd generation and example of H3
antihistamines (betahistine).


Student knows the main differences between antihistamines 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation.


Student knows basic pharmacological profile (mode of action, unwanted effects, indications and
contraindications) of antihistamines.


Recommended study materials

Rang & Dale's Pharmacology E - Book, Humphrey Rang 8th edition, 2016 - chapter 17. Local hormones
1: histamine and the biologically active lipids, Histamine, pp. 212-213; chapter 26.
Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant drugs, Antagonists of histamine, pp. 331-333


Study materials in IS aVLFA0822p and  aVLFA0822c.


Exam questions

Special pharmacology: H[1] antihistamines

Essential drugs: bisulepine/cetirizine, moxastine, betahistine