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Histamine receptors in the lung.
New England and Regional Allergy Proceedings
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Histamine H1 receptors in airways cause bronchoconstriction, while H2 receptors cause weak bronchodilation. H1 antagonists may benefit select asthma patients, especially newer non-sedating options.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Human airways possess both H1 and H2 histamine receptors.
- H1 receptors are predominant and mediate bronchoconstriction.
- H2 receptors mediate bronchodilation, but this effect is weak in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of histamine receptor antagonists in asthma treatment.
- To explore the potential benefits of H1 receptor antagonism in managing asthma symptoms.
- To assess the efficacy of new, non-sedating H1 antagonists for asthma therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on histamine receptor function in human airways.
- Analysis of studies investigating H1 receptor antagonist effects on bronchoconstriction.
- Examination of protective effects against various asthma triggers.
Main Results:
- H1 receptor antagonism can lead to significant bronchodilation in some asthmatics.
- H1 antagonists can block antigen and histamine-induced bronchoconstriction.
- Some protective effects against exercise and aspirin-induced bronchoconstriction were observed.
Conclusions:
- The role of classic H1 receptor antagonists in established asthma treatment is not yet defined.
- These agents may offer benefits for specific asthma patients.
- Newer, non-sedating H1 antagonists show promise for future asthma therapy, requiring further investigation.