There are situations that a child needs to take anti-allergic (antihistamines) drugs. For example, if a baby has chickenpox, hives, allergic rhinitis. What are the best antihistamines for a child? Every mother asks this question. Let's try to figure it out.
What are antiallergic drugs
These are medicines, they are used to treat allergies. Inhibit 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 the long-known or modern antihistamines for a child?
Diversity
They are divided conditionally into three generations (according to the time of their production). So, we will consider in more detail all these types.
- Antihistamines for a first-generation baby.These include funds "Suprastin", "Diphenhydramine" ("Diphenhydramine"), "Peritol", "Promethazine", "Fenkarol", "Clemastil" ("Tavegil"), "Diazolin". They are rapidly excreted from the body, therefore, require frequent use. They have a negative effect on the nervous system. Children cause lethargy, impaired coordination, lethargy and dizziness. The best remedy from the list is Tavegil, it has a minimal side effect and lasting effect. Contraindicated in newborns. It is used for children older than three years with urticaria, eczema, skin itching and allergic rhinitis.
- Antiallergic drugs of the second generation. These are medicines "Zirtek", "Kestin", "Claritin". These drugs do not cause a hypnotic effect, but in rare cases can cause dry mouth, lack of appetite and headache. They last a long time. Used with the same symptoms as previous medicines.
- Antihistamines for a third-generation baby : Astemizole and Terfenadine. They are used for allergic rhinitis, dermatitis and bronchial asthma. They do not have a sedative effect and are practically safe. Recommended for children after three years.
The selection of antiallergic drugs is carried out individually by the doctor. The nature of the allergy, age and immunological status of the child are taken into account. But most often, the pediatrician prescribes second or third generation drugs, since many of them also have anti-inflammatory effects.
Antihistamines for children up to a year
Babies of this age can easily develop an allergy. To protect the child, follow a diet. Maintain a clean house, ventilate the room. Use proven cosmetics. Choose antiallergic drugs for newborns with extreme caution. So what kind of antihistamine medications can be given to babies up to a year? Pediatricians advise using drops of "Fenistil" to children older than one month, candles "Diphenhydramine" - older than seven months, "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.
Which children are not allowed to take allergy medications?
Drugs are not recommended for children suffering from the following diseases:
- diabetes
- glaucoma
- liver dysfunction;
- hyperthyroidism;
- an ulcer;
- high blood pressure.
Remember that taking antihistamines is carried out only according to the instructions. But best of all, do not self-medicate the child, but consult a specialist.