antihistamine

Everyday

1. A medicine that calms allergic reactions such as sneezing, itchy eyes, rashes and hay fever. tree →
2. (science) It works by blocking histamine, a chemical the body releases when it reacts to things like pollen, pet hair or insect bites. tree →

In the lessons

In health lessons, antihistamines help with hay fever and mild allergies. Some make you sleepy. For a severe allergy (anaphylaxis) an antihistamine is not enough: people need an adrenaline pen and an ambulance. Phrases: «take an antihistamine», «antihistamine cream».

Examples

• I take an antihistamine in summer for my hay fever. tree →
• The nurse put antihistamine cream on the bee sting. tree →
• Some antihistamines make you drowsy. tree →
• My dog allergy is better when I take antihistamines. tree →
• For a serious allergy, call an ambulance; an antihistamine is not enough. tree →
• The pharmacist gave Mum an antihistamine syrup for me. tree →

Note

anti + histamine. Say «an-tee-HISS-tuh-meen». Countable. Only take medicines with a trusted adult or a doctor's advice.