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Antihistamine use in children
Roisin Fitzsimons1, Lauri-Ann van der Poel2, William Thornhill3
1Children's Allergy Service, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK Department of Asthma, Allergy and Respiratory Science, King's College London, London, UK.
Archives of Disease in Childhood. Education and Practice Edition
|August 23, 2014
Summary
Second-generation antihistamines are recommended for children with allergic conditions due to their superior safety and efficacy compared to first-generation options. This review details antihistamine use, dosing, and indications in pediatric allergy management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Therapeutics
Background:
- Histamine H(1)-antihistamines are widely used for allergic conditions in children.
- Understanding histamine receptor pharmacology and drug pharmacokinetics is crucial for effective pediatric dosing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the use of first- and second-generation H(1)-antihistamines in pediatric populations.
- To provide guidance on the selection and administration of antihistamines for various allergic conditions in children.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of H(1)-antihistamine pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical applications in children.
- Analysis of safety profiles, efficacy, and dosing considerations for different antihistamine generations.
Main Results:
- Second-generation H(1)-antihistamines demonstrate a better safety profile (fewer cognitive and antimuscarinic effects) and longer duration of action than first-generation agents.
- Second-generation antihistamines are preferred for non-anaphylactic allergic reactions, allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema, and chronic spontaneous urticaria in children.
Conclusions:
- Second-generation H(1)-antihistamines are the preferred choice for managing common allergic conditions in children.
- This review offers practical guidance on antihistamine selection, dosing, and administration for pediatric use.
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