An overview of anti-allergic drug therapy and the histamine-1 antihistamines

  • Natalie Schellack Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
  • Gustav Schellack
  • Mia Janse van Rensburg Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Keywords: anti-allergic drug therapy, H1 antihistamines, histamine receptors, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, allergy health

Abstract

Allergic disease decreases the daily quality of life of many people, and can increase the number of working days lost owing to sick leave. Associated symptoms with allergic disease depend on the origin of the disease, and can either be allergic, non-allergic and purulent, or can cause rhinitis as a result of a common cold. Treatment depends on the origin of the rhinitis. However, an antihistamine is indicated in most instances. Combination treatment includes sympathomimetic drugs (either local or systemic) and corticosteroid medication (when indicated, and in most instances, used locally). The article provides an overview of the nature and the management of allergic disease and the histamine 1 antihistamines.

Author Biographies

Natalie Schellack, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BCur, BPharm, PhD(Pharmacy) Senior Lecturer Department of Pharmacy Faculty of Health Sciences Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Gustav Schellack
BCur, AdvUnivDiplNursSc(HSM), HonsBSc(Pharmacology) Clinical Trial Manager in the Pharmaceutical Industry Specialising in Clinical Research and Applied Pharmacology
Mia Janse van Rensburg, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BPharm Academic Intern Department of Pharmacy Faculty of Health Sciences Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University