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

Decongestants are the main concern, while antihistamines are generally considered a safer option for people with high blood pressure. —Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 18 May 2026

Kansagra said more of his patients used supplements than over-the-counter sleep aids that are often made with antihistamines similar to those found in Benadryl. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2026

Consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine. —Eva Flowe may 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 May 2026

For kids, saline nasal rinses and sprays are a gentler starting point recommended by Johns Hopkins pediatric physicians before moving to antihistamines. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 30 Apr. 2026

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