Antihistamines for the child: review and recommendations

There are situations that a child needs to take anti-allergic (antihistamine) drugs. For example, if a baby has chickenpox, hives, allergic rhinitis. What are the best ways to choose antihistamines for a child? Every mother is asked this question. Let's try to understand.

What is antiallergic drugs?

These are medicines, they are used to treat allergies. Suppress the action of histamine, which is formed in the human body and causes various symptoms: itching, redness, rash and so on. So, is it better to suppress the undesirable effect of long-known or modern antihistamines for a child?

Diversity

They are divided conditionally into three generations (according to the time of their production). So, let's take a closer look at all these types.

1. Antihistamines for the first generation baby. These include the funds "Suprastin", "Diphenhydramine" ("Dimedrol"), "Peritol", "Prometazin", "Fenkarol", "Clemastil" ("Tavegil"), "Diazolin". They are quickly eliminated from the body, so they require frequent application. They have a negative effect on the nervous system. Children cause inhibition, impaired coordination, lethargy and dizziness. The best remedy from the list is Tavegil, it has a minimal side effect and a long action. Contraindicated in newborns. It is used for children older than three years with hives, eczema, skin itching and allergic rhinitis.
2. Second-generation antiallergic drugs. This medication is "Zirtek", "Kestin", "Claritin". These drugs do not cause hypnotic effect, but in rare cases can cause dry mouth, lack of appetite and headache. They act continuously. Used for the same symptoms as previous drugs.
3. Antihistamines for a child of the third generation: "Astemizol" and "Terfenadin." They are used for allergic rhinitis, dermatitis and bronchial asthma. Do not have a sedative effect and are almost safe. Recommended for children after three years.

Selection of antiallergic drugs is carried out by a doctor individually. The nature of the allergy, the age and the immunological status of the child are taken into account. But most often the pediatrician prescribes preparations of the second or third generation, since many of them also have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Antihistamines for children under one year of age

Children of this age can easily develop an allergy. To protect a child, keep a diet. Keep the house clean and ventilate the room. Use proven cosmetics. Antiallergic drugs for newborns should be chosen with extreme caution. So which antihistamines can be given to babies for up to a year? Pediatricians advise the use of drops of "Fenistil" to children over one month old, candles "Dimedrol" - over seven months old, "Suprastin" in the form of injections. Remember, all drugs must be used strictly under the supervision of a doctor. Only he can calculate the safe dose.

What children are prohibited from taking allergy medications

Preparations are not recommended for children suffering from the following diseases:

• Diabetes;
• Glaucoma;
• Liver dysfunction;
• Hyperthyroidism;
• Ulcer;
• High blood pressure.

Remember that taking antihistamines is done only according to the instructions. But best of all do not engage in self-treatment of a child, but consult a specialist.