Antihistaminic drugs in dermatology.

From the results of treatment of 1,770 patients with dermatologic diseases (1,458 as reported in the literature and 312 observed by the author) it is concluded that antihistaminic preparations are of great value in allergic diseases where it is hypothecated that liberated histamine is the offender, as in acute edematous types of urticaria, erythema multiforme, and some cases of allergic pruritus. The indiscriminate use of these drugs is to be avoided. Antihistaminic drugs are palliative-they do not cure. They often prolong the disease. They give temporary relief from swelling and pruritus. They develop no specific immunity and do not replace immunizing efforts. They do not replace or interfere with epinephrine or ephedrine.