[A new H1-blocking antihistamine. Critical review of pharmacological and clinical studies].

Astemizole is a long-acting antihistamine that blocks the H1 receptors. Thanks to its long-acting effect, symptoms can be controlled by a single daily dose. Its efficacy in the treatment of seasonal and permanent allergic rhinitis has been demonstrated in many studies in which it was compared with other antihistamines. It has also proved useful in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis and chronic urticaria. Though a tendency to increased appetite and slight weight gain after prolonged use has been noted in some patients, astemizole is not sedative and has no anticholinergic effect in the standard therapeutic doses.