Antihistamines in Children: A Dermatological Perspective

Antihistamines are widely used drugs in pediatric population. First-generation antihistamines have been in use since last many years, though adequate data on their efficacy and safety in pediatric population is scarce. In contrast, second-generation antihistamines have been studied extensively in children and have a better safety profile with more receptor selectivity and less adverse effects. Pruritus has a significant impact on the quality of life in children and its management is of paramount importance. This article reviews the first and second-generation antihistamines in the light of recent advances in the understanding of their pharmacological properties and safety profile in children. An extensive literature search was done; all clinical trials, randomized double-blinded or single-blinded controlled trials, open-label studies, retrospective studies, reviews, case series, and case reports focusing on the use of antihistamines in pediatric age groups were screened. The selected articles were retrieved; the final manuscript was prepared, analyzed, and presented in a narrative fashion.