Antihistamines – A WonderCare Guide!

Here is a little guide with everything you need to know about antihistamines!

Antihistamines are medicines that treat allergic conditions. They work by relieving symptoms rather than curing conditions.  They treat symptoms like itching, rash, hives, hay fever, runny eyes or nose due to allergy, irritation from bites or stings or even food allergies.

An oral antihistamine solution may be used if your child is over two years of age.

Zirtek solution is a product licensed in Ireland for the treatment of seasonal hay fever and also rashes like hives.  It can be taken by children aged 2-6 years at a dose of 2.5ml twice daily as required. Children aged 6-12 years can take 5mls twice daily. Always check the instructions on the pack as recommended doses may change and the product may not be suitable for your child.  You can read the patient information leaflet by clicking here!
Phenergan Solution can also be used for children over two years of age for allergic conditions and reactions. Children 2-5 years should take one to three 5ml spoonfuls (5-15mg) once daily at bedtime. This product can cause drowsiness, this is why it may be more suitable for night time use rather than day time use. If given during the day please supervise your child constantly after administration. Again please check the information on the pack to ensure it is suitable for your child and to ensure you are giving the correct dose.  You can read the patient information leaflet by clicking here!
Opticrom Allergy Eyedrops – These eye drops can be used for any age child or adult. They soothe itchy and watery eyes and can be used at a dosage of 1-2 drops up to four times a day. I would lay your child down to put eye drops in – just wash your hands and then pull down their lower eye lid and drop in the drops. It is normal for them to blink afterwards but just try not to let them rub their eyes after the drops are in – it’s handy to have something to distract them nearby like a toy or a treat! You can read the patient information leaflet by clicking here!

Anthisan Cream – This is an antihistamine cream which can be used for babies and adults (so long as not premature babies or neonates).  It is used to relieve itching and discomfort for rash and irritation caused by stings, and bites.  You apply it to the affected area two to three times a day.  If the condition has not improved within three days you must contact the doctor.  It is not suitable for use on eczema or broken skin.  It is really just used for small areas.  It can’t be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.  You can read the patient information leaflet by clicking here!

Eurax Cream is worth a mention as it is suitable for treating an itchy rash but it is not actually an antihistamine and is only suitable for children over three years without consultation with the doctor.  You can read the patient information leaflet by clicking here!

I hope you have found this article helpful and if you have any questions at all please don’t hesitate to contact me by sending a private message to the WonderCare facebook page (www.facebook.com/wonderbabacare) or by calling me (Sheena) at Milltown totalhealth Pharmacy in Dublin 6 on 012600262. I’m always happy to help!