What is the primary role of antihistamines?

The primary role of antihistamines is to relieve allergic reactions. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that is released during an allergic response. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and hives. By inhibiting its effects, antihistamines help alleviate these symptoms, making them essential in the treatment of conditions like allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and other allergic responses.

Antihistamines are not primarily designed to reduce pain, control seizures, or reduce anxiety. Pain management usually requires analgesics, seizure control is typically targeted with anticonvulsants, and anxiety is often treated with anxiolytics. Therefore, the unique mechanism of action of antihistamines makes their primary role distinct and focused on managing allergic reactions.