An antihistamine is a type of medication commonly known to help to control allergy and cold symptoms, but it is also sometimes used for the treatment of anxiety. The best types of medications are obtained by a doctor’s prescription, and your medical professional can work with you to reduce your symptoms with other methods. Over-the-counter antihistamines are the most accessible of the drugs, but many of them can cause drowsiness. Like other types of medications, the most effective forms of antihistamines tend to be in capsule form. It is important to keep in mind an antihistamine for anxiety will not cure your condition, but it can be used as a part of your overall treatment plan to help to control symptoms.
Prescription antihistamines are generally the best forms of this kind of medication because you can ensure that your treatment is being looked after by a physician. Also, many of these drugs do not have as high of a risk of excessive drowsiness, which is not preferred by patients who need to use the medication during the day. An antihistamine for anxiety works by blocking the release of histamine in the brain, which can also have a slight sedating effect.
Over-the-counter medications are preferred by patients who do not have the money or time to visit a physician to obtain a prescription. It is important to check with a professional before attempting to self-treat any anxiety symptoms. When choosing an antihistamine for anxiety from a drugstore, try to choose a version that does not cause excessive drowsiness. If you have trouble sleeping, then perhaps the best kind should cause slight sleepiness.
The best forms of both prescription and over-the-counter antihistamines tend to be capsule forms that you swallow whole because there is a less chance of error when dosing. Chewable tablets are an alternative option, but you need to make sure that you crush the whole pill before swallowing. Keep in mind that capsules that are designed to be swallowed whole should not be chewed beforehand because this can decrease the efficacy of the medication. A liquid antihistamine for anxiety is another alternative, but you need to use extra caution in order to make sure that you pour the exact recommended dose into a measuring cup.
You should not solely rely on an antihistamine for anxiety to treat your condition. Although this type of medication can help to control related symptoms, many patients need to undergo psychotherapy as well. It is also important to bear in mind that antihistamines are generally used for anxiety on a temporary basis because of the sedating effects of the medication. If you experience any side effects, such as dizziness and appetite changes, you should ask your doctor before continuing to take this drug.