I'm always surprised how many of my new patients come to me taking older, sedating antihistamines to treat a wide variety of allergic conditions. Sedating antihistamines, such as over-the-counter Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and prescription Atarax (hydroxyzine), have significant side effects that often outweigh the benefits of taking the medication. This is particularly true for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), which is much more effectively treating with newer, low sedating antihistamines. Not only do sedating antihistamines cause drowsiness, they cause constipation, urinary retention and dry mouth. What's more, in many states in this country, a person can be charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) if an automobile accident is deemed to be their fault while taking a sedating antihistamine. It is true, however, that some allergic conditions, such as urticaria (hives) and pruritus (itching), sometimes respond better to sedating antihistamines, especially doxepin.
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