Why Do Antihistamines Make Me Anxious and Feel Weird?

Are you one of those people who find that antihistamines like Benadryl or Cetirizine leave you feeling anxious, jitters, and otherwise out of sorts?

If you've ever wondered if there are any allergy medicines that won't give you this reaction, you're not alone. Let's explore the reasons behind these side effects and some alternative options that might help.

The Science Behind Antihistamine Side Effects

Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors, which are responsible for the effects of an allergic reaction. However, different types of antihistamines can have varying side effects, especially on the central nervous system. For example, older, first-generation antihistamines like Cetirizine are known to cross the blood-brain barrier and can cause sedation or anxiety in some individuals. These drugs are first-generation anticholinergic, which means they block the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, leading to increased acetylcholine levels in the brain and potentially causing these side effects.

Identifying the Culprit

If you're among those who experience anxiety and weird feelings from antihistamines, it's important to identify which type of antihistamine you're taking. Older first-generation antihistamines commonly cause these symptoms due to their broader effects on the body and brain. For instance, Cetirizine and its cousins might be making you feel this way. However, newer, second-generation antihistamines like Loratadine or Fexofenadine are designed to be much less sedating and are less likely to cause anxiety.

Alternatives to Consider

Here are a few alternatives to traditional antihistamines that may help you find relief from your allergic symptoms without the unwanted side effects:

Quercetin Supplementation

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It acts as a natural antihistamine and can help reduce allergic reactions without causing unwanted side effects. You can find supplements in most health food stores, and some fruits like apples contain high levels of quercetin in their skin. Eating apples with the skin on can be a good way to boost your intake.

Histamine-Restricted Diet

Histamines are naturally present in certain foods. If you're particularly sensitive to histamines, reducing your intake of these foods might help alleviate your symptoms. Here's a list of high-histamine foods to avoid:

Caraway Seeds, Aloe Vera, Basil, Cilantro, Cinnamon Verum, Dandelion Root, Fennel Seeds, Hibiscus, Lemon Balm, Liquorice Root, Moringa, Nettle, Nigella, Oregano, Parsley, Peppermint, Sage, Spirulina, Thyme, Tulsi, Apple, Blackberry, Blueberry, Kiwi Fruit, Mango, Mangosteen, Pomegranate, Artichoke, Asparagus, Broccoli, Cabbage, Capsicum Green, Chickpea, Cashews, Walnuts, Apricots Dried, Banana Fresh, Cherries Glace, Cranberries, Dates, Mango, Raisins, Sultanas, Yeast Flakes, Agrikon, Anise Star, Blazei, Cacao, Chaga, Chickweed, Clove, Cordyceps, Fenugreek, Green Tea Ext, Lions Mane, Maitake, Mesima, Mustard, Nutmeg, Pea Protein, Pectin-Citrus, Pepper-Cayenne, Reishi Mm, Rice Protein, Shiitake, Turkey Tail, Lecithin, Fig, Grapefruit Peel, Papaya, Pineapple, Prune, Raspberry, Strawberry, Pumpkin, Spinach, Tomato, Cacao Butter, Cacao Paste, Molasses Black Strap, Vanilla Essence

Second-Generation Antihistamines

Second-generation antihistamines like Loratadine (Claritin) are less likely to cause sedation and are therefore less likely to cause anxiety and other unwanted side effects. These drugs are designed to target histamine H1 receptor sites in the brain without affecting other systems, making them a better choice for people who experience these side effects with other antihistamines.

Conclusion

While antihistamines can be effective for allergy relief, they're not without side effects. By understanding the differences between first and second-generation antihistamines and exploring natural alternatives like Quercetin and histamine-restricted diets, you might find a solution that works for you without leaving you feeling anxious and out of sorts.

Remember, if you're experiencing persistent side effects or if your symptoms worsen, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.