Antihistamines

The effect of antihistamines is usually based on two different mechanisms. Histamine is released in the body during an allergic reaction and then leads to an excessive reaction of the immune system. To break this control loop, the receptors (i.e. the sites where histamine can dock) must be blocked.

This is the main task of antihistamines. It should be noted that there are two different histamine receptors. They are called H1 and H2 receptor.

H1-receptor antagonists that are frequently used are dimetindene and clemastine. At the H2-receptor, the rantidine is mainly active. In the case of an acute allergic reaction, the agents are usually administered into the vein.

This is the quickest way to take effect. They are mainly used for generalized skin symptoms such as redness, swelling, wheals and itching. Cetericine in particular is known as a long-term therapy. This medication is usually taken in the form of tablets and can be taken over a longer period of time to alleviate permanent symptoms, for example in the case of a house dust allergy.

Cortisone

Cortisone belongs to the group of so-called glucocorticoids and occurs naturally in the body. These glucocorticoids can affect almost all cells in the human body. The anti-inflammatory effect of cortisone is used against allergies.Cortisone can be used in the form of tablets, creams and ointments, eye and nasal sprays, as well as dissolved for administration into the vein.

Creams and ointments are generally used for allergic symptoms on the skin, as they can be applied directly to the site of action. Frequently used cortisone ointments are, for example, FeniHydrocort, which, together with the active ingredient Fenistil, also has an effect against histamine. However, hydrocortisone can also be contained as a single active ingredient in an ointment.

Cortisone tablets usually have to be taken slowly in and out, so you must not suddenly start taking a high dose of the tablets or stop taking them abruptly. Usually such tablets are used for rheumatic diseases, more rarely for allergies. More frequent against it is the application of Cortisonsprays.

These can develop their anti-allergic effect in the nose, mouth and/or throat. To the sprays belong among other things Beclometason, Budesonid, Flunisolid, Fluticason and Mometasonsprays. Nasal sprays containing cortisone are said to have antiallergic and anti-inflammatory effects, especially locally on the nasal mucosa.

They are particularly effective for hay fever. Because of their purely local effect, nasal sprays are much better tolerated than cortisone tablets, but they increase the risk of nosebleeds and sneezing attacks. Due to their anti-allergic effect they reduce itching and can also prevent burning and tearing of the eyes.

Beclometasone nasal sprays such as Otri hay fever are most commonly used. Rhinocort and Nasonex are also typical representatives of nasal sprays containing cortisone. Eye drops containing cortisone are said to have an anti-inflammatory effect.

This function is mainly based on the fact that cortisone regulates the development of the immune system‘s defense cells. The cortisone-containing drops can reduce this production and thus counteract the excessive immune response in allergic reactions. In addition, the eye drops have a good effect against itching and burning of the eyes due to their liquid content. Typical representatives of this group of drugs are prednisolone eye drops such as Pred forte®.