title: [H1 histamine antagonists].
abstract: Histamine is an important mediator for early phase allergic reactions that are involved in atopic diseases, mediated by specific IgE antibodies. After allergenic contact, its liberation induces unpleasant symptoms like itching, several manifestations as local vasodilatation, bronchoconstriction, mucus hypersecretion. Antagonists of H1 histamine receptors are the most prescribed drugs, due to their symptomatic effects at the levels of nasal or conjunctival mucosa, and the skin. Their major indications cover allergic rhinitis, either seasonal or perennial, and idiopathic chronic urticaria, as a first line medication. The pharmacological evolution allows to distinguish three generations of products differing at the levels of specificity, long acting period, and toxicity. The authors are discussing the respective benefits of two recent molecules presented as 3rd generation molecules: fexofenadine and levocetirizine, while repositioning their use among available treatment strategy.
authors.affiliation: Service d'Immunologie-C.H.U. Brugmann, U.L.B.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Duchateau
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Heenen
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sternon
mesh_terms: D000085:Acetates / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018926:Anti-Allergic Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017332:Cetirizine; D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010879:Piperazines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016593:Terfenadine / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014581:Urticaria / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000085:Acetates; D018926:Anti-Allergic Agents; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists; D010879:Piperazines; C472067:levocetirizine; D016593:Terfenadine; C093230:fexofenadine; D017332:Cetirizine