This document summarizes information about histamine and antihistamines. It discusses:
- Histamine's roles in the body as a mediator of inflammation and local immune responses, in regulating gut function, and as a neurotransmitter.
- How histamine is produced and stored in mast cells and basophils and is released during immune responses.
- The four types of histamine receptors (H1-H4), their locations and functions. H1 antihistamines are used to treat allergies.
- Details on first and second generation H1 antihistamines, including their structures, mechanisms of action, uses, and side effects. Second generation antihistamines avoid the