Do seasonal allergy antihistamines like flonase or zyrtec have any impact on other allergic reactions like a bee sting or poison ivy? Why are there different types of antihistamines?

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Do seasonal allergy antihistamines like flonase or zyrtec have any impact on other allergic reactions like a bee sting or poison ivy? Why are there different types of antihistamines?

In: Biology

2 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Yes. And vice versa—I use anti inflammatories like NSAIDs for severe allergies.

But basically, there are slightly specialized antihistamines that work better on skin, lungs, mucus membranes, etc. But on the flip side, once the _initial_ anaphylactic reaction is over, they fill you with generalized antihistamines to reduce the reaction.

Source: take 7 daily allergy medicines, not all of which are antihistamines

Anonymous 0 Comments

Flonase is actually an intranasal steroid, while Zyrtec is a second generation antihistamine known as cetirizine. Typically with allergic reactions that are serious (like anaphylaxis due to peanuts or bee stings), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), is used in IV form among other medications. Diphenhydramine is a first generation antihistamine that works a little differently from second gens. First generation antihistamines cross the blood-brain barrier and can make you drowsy. Sometimes they’re used for motion sickness and sleep aids depending on the medication, as where second gen antihistamines are usually only used for seasonal allergies. As far as I know, poison ivy is treated with a topical steroid and antihistamines.