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Date sent: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 09:45:50 -0400 Send reply to: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network <[log in to unmask]> From: "William P. Taggart" <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Anithistamines? To: [log in to unmask] > Antihistamines? > > I understand antihistamines create relief from allergies by supressing > the immune system. Does this make your system less protective while > you're on antihistamines? Does it make your cells be more exposed to > free radicals, for instance? > > Bill The antihistamines do *not* "suppress the immune system". They block the action of histamine, a substance which is released during allergic-like reactions, and which is responsible for the symptoms of "allergy". Antihistamines are used for *symptomatic* relief only; they may not influence the course of the underlying disease process one way or the other. Some recent studies suggest that they may *prolong* the duration of such mild virus illnesses such as colds, this by "drying up" the mucous membranes, but this is not due to an effect on the immune system. The stuff about "free radicals" is highly questionable. It is emphasized by commercial entities which try to *sell* you stuff to deal with "free radicals". Free radicals, although theoretically of some interest, have never been shown to have any influence on *real* disease. To me, whenever I see something being touted as treating "free radicals", I suspect quackery. Best, Bob ********************************************** Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S., P. C. 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 Telephone: 510-849-2555 FAX: 510-849-2557 WWW: http://www.dovecom.com/rafink/ mailto:[log in to unmask] "Ex Tristitia Virtus" *********************************************