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http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl General Mast Cell Disorders Discussion >> Medicines >> difference between H1 and H2 blockers http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1312721288 Message started by jenwic on 08/07/11 at 01:48:08

Title: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by jenwic on 08/07/11 at 01:48:08

Can you tell me what is the difference between H1 and H2 blockers? Is it only that H1 blockers work throughout the body and H2 blockers work only in the digestive system?

Title: Re: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by Starflower on 08/07/11 at 04:33:15

Both kinds of antihistamines work throughout the body. H1 receptors are concentrated in your respiratory system (but exist in other places)... H2 receptors are concentrated in your GI system (but exist in other places). Combining them gives you the best chance to get any kind of reaction under control, regardless of what system(s) in your body are reacting.

Heather

Title: Re: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by kimtg68 on 08/07/11 at 04:44:35

I did not know this. Good question and great info!

Title: Re: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by jenwic on 08/07/11 at 13:31:11

Thanks, Heather! I could see a big difference in my symptoms when I started Claritin, but since I just started Zantac (75 mg a day) I can't tell that the Zantac has changed my symptoms any. Maybe it's just because I need a bigger dose.

I'll be started a night time Zantac dose next. Should I take it before supper or at bedtime?

Title: Re: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by Riverwn on 08/07/11 at 18:25:04

With Zantac I would try to space the doses about 12 hours apart, unless you are taking a mid day dose too. Most of us take 300 mg twice a day and I will take an extra if I am actively reacting.

Title: Re: difference between H1 and H2 blockers
Post by Starflower on 08/08/11 at 02:08:42

Ditto what Ramona said.

Heather