If you take another pain killer or decongestant at the same time, that could cause an overdose as well. So read the label carefully. You can also contact Poison Control if you think you took too much or gave too much to your child. The phone number is , or use the online tool. When in doubt, ask a professional. Skip to main content Search for a topic or drug.
Learn how to combine allergy medicine for a sneeze-free season. By Nicole Roder Updated on Jan. Top Reads in Health Education. Diabetes and exercise Nov. What is insulin resistance? Do coffee and diabetes mix? Diabetes in women Nov. Looking for a prescription? Search now! Seasonal allergies are typically limited to the spring, summer, and early fall, but perennial allergies can occur year-round. First-generation antihistamines come with risk of more side effects and interactions, so are not generally advised for long-term usage.
Additionally, frequent use of the first generation antihistamines may lead to excessive weight gain. Because they cause drowsiness, they are not safe to mix with alcohol—something to consider if you plan to have a drink during allergy season. The risk of interaction increases with combination products. Some allergy medications contain an antihistamine and a decongestant e. However, Dr. Use this table as a quick reference guide for which medications are safe, but always consult with your pharmacist or healthcare provider before adding a medication to your daily regimen.
First-generation antihistamines can cause side effects such as:. Second-generation antihistamines do not have these side effects, but can cause:. Rarely, second-generation antihistamines can cause acute liver problems, according to Dr.
Lin explains. Side effects are rare if you abruptly discontinue antihistamines after regular use. However, another study found that second generation antihistamines can cause dangerous symptoms when children overdose on them. Diagnosing an antihistamine overdose usually starts with a discussion about all medications the person is taking and not just the antihistamines. This is because some other medications, such as cold, flu, and sleep medications, contain antihistamines.
If a person takes one of these other medications and also takes an allergy medication, they may accidentally overdose. Other medications, such as certain antidepressants and motion sickness drugs, can also cause an overdose if a person mixes them with antihistamines.
If someone is not sure about the amount of antihistamine they took, a doctor may need to conduct a physical exam. They may look for signs such as drowsiness, irritability, blurred vision, or seizures.
They may also check the heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure. In mild cases, an individual may be able to use self-care at home. If the person is experiencing serious symptoms, they may need hospitalization, including heart monitoring, intravenous IV fluids, and medication.
In some cases, doctors may give a person activated charcoal, which helps prevent the absorption of some medications and chemicals in the gut. They may also use ipecac syrup, which causes the person to vomit.
This can cause any excess medication to leave the body in the vomitus. Antihistamines may be first generation sedating or second generation nonsedating. These two types may lead to different reactions if a person takes too much. First generation antihistamines are more likely to cross the blood-brain barrier. This means they can make people dizzy or drowsy, even in normal doses. Second generation antihistamines are newer drugs and are less likely to have these effects.
Nonetheless, people can overdose on both types. Some experts say first generation antihistamines are more likely to result in death from accidents or overdoses than their second generation counterparts. These newer antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness and dizziness.
Research has found them less likely to cause dangerous effects if a person takes too much. Antihistamines are typically safe when a person takes the correct amount. However, as with any medication, they can cause serious adverse effects if someone takes too much. People must keep antihistamines and all medications out of reach of children. Some antihistamines are safe for children to take, but it is important to ask a doctor or pharmacist about the right dose.
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