Question:
I have a year-round indoor allergy to dust mites, for which I
have tried several of the new prescription antihistamines. My
main symptom is itching of the skin, with sinus problems
secondary. The two drugs that I have tried that work well make
me really drowsy, even though they are supposed to be the
non-drowsy kind (Allegra & Zyrtec). Even the ones with the
decongestant (Allegra-D & Zyrtec-D) still make me sleepy. I've
also tried Clarinex & Claritin, neither of which worked against
the itching. What other antihistamines are there for me to try?
I will ask my allergist this question also, but I am wondering
why in the world these non-drowsy ones make me so tired. I have
often joked with my husband that I have weird chemistry -- lots
of drugs that aren't supposed to make me sleepy do, and the ones
that are, don't. Like, Benadryl doesn't make me all that
sleepy. It works OK for the itching, but it only lasts for 4
hours. What other long-acting antihistamines are on the market
that work well for skin itching?
Answer:
Azatadine (don't know the trade names) - has a duration of action that
is 12 hrs - it is a sedating antihistamine as well - though I have no
idea just how sedating it is. I have never seen it OTC here in Canada -
I think it is rarely ever used anymore. I believe it is by prescription
only.
My experience is that sedation is much less likely to occur if the
antihistamine is taken with a meal. Conversely, severe sedation can occur
if a sedating antihistamine is taken on an empty stomach. I believe
Benadryl was the first antihistamine on the market. I used it about 1947,
1950 and found it to be effective but very sedating if taken on an empty
stomach. I have never since found one as effective although my need is now
rather infrequent.
