antihistamine

noun

an·​ti·​his·​ta·​mine ˌan-tē-ˈhi-stə-ˌmēn 

-mən,

ˌan-tī-

: any of various compounds that counteract histamine in the body and that are used for treating allergic reactions (such as hay fever) and cold symptoms

antihistamine adjective

antihistaminic

ˌan-tē-ˌhi-stə-ˈmi-nik 

ˌan-tī-

adjective or noun

Examples of antihistamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But while some people are lucky enough not to need OTC meds after finishing their injections, others may still need to take antihistamines from time to time. —Kathleen Felton, SELF, 10 June 2024

Our list includes products that contain natural ingredients, corticosteroids, and antihistamines, as well as items that use pressure or heat to relieve a bite. —Laura Lu, Ms, Parents, 4 June 2024

Take oral antihistamines: Benadryl and other oral antihistamines can help alleviate itching and reduce allergic reactions. —Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 29 May 2024

If the itch is unbearable, pharmacists can provide prescription-strength anti-itch lotions or antihistamines. —Divya Murthy, Detroit Free Press, 24 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

antihistamine

noun

an·​ti·​his·​ta·​mine ˌant-i-ˈhis-tə-ˌmēn 

-mən,

ˌan-ˌtī-

: any of various drugs used for treating allergic reactions and cold symptoms

Medical Definition

antihistamine

1 of 2 adjective

an·​ti·​his·​ta·​mine ˌant-i-ˈhis-tə-ˌmēn, ˌan-ˌtī-, -mən 

: tending to block or counteract the physiological action of histamine

human blood lacks antihistamine activity

antihistamine

2 of 2 noun

: any of various compounds that oppose the actions of histamine and are used especially for treating allergic reactions (as hay fever), cold symptoms, and motion sickness