antihistamine

[ an-ti-his-tuh-meen, -min ]

noun

, Physiology, Pharmacology.

1. any of certain compounds or medicines that neutralize or inhibit the effect of histamine in the body, used chiefly in the treatment of allergic disorders and colds.

antihistamine

/ -mɪn; ˌæntɪˈhɪstəˌmiːn /

noun

1. any drug that neutralizes the effects of histamine, used esp in the treatment of allergies

antihistamine

/ ăn′tē-hĭs′tə-mēn′ /

1. Any of various drugs that relieve cold or allergy symptoms by blocking the action of histamine.

Word History and Origins

Origin of antihistamine¹

First recorded in 1930–35; anti- + histamine

Example Sentences

Mr Prussak then walked her to his flat, and was accused of giving her bitter-tasting water allegedly containing the antihistamine Benadryl, which left her tired, the court heard.

From BBC

If you’re highly allergic to mosquitoes, the American Mosquito Control Assn. said you may need a cream with Benadryl or a similar antihistamine.

From Los Angeles Times

When the boy developed the rash, his family gave him the antihistamine Benadryl and soaked him in a bath at home, but it did not go away, according to Madisonville police.

From Seattle Times

Earlier this month, the state medical examiner released the results of its examination and found that Nex had died from “combined toxicity” of diphenhydramine, an antihistamine commonly used for allergies, and fluoxetine, a drug often used to treat depression.

From New York Times

If you’re highly allergic to mosquitoes, he said, you may need a cream with Benadryl or similar antihistamine.

From Los Angeles Times