dimetindene

Dimetindene is a first-generation selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist with anticholinergic properties, used primarily as an antipruritic and antiallergic agent. It is administered orally or topically to treat allergic conditions such as hay fever, urticaria, perennial rhinitis, pruritus of various origins (except cholestatic pruritus), insect bites, and skin irritations. Dimetindene is also indicated for pruritus in eruptive skin diseases like chickenpox and can be used as an adjuvant in eczema and other allergic dermatoses. The drug acts by blocking the action of endogenous histamine at the H1 receptor, providing temporary relief from symptoms caused by histamine release. Additionally, it exhibits M2 muscarinic receptor antagonism due to its stereoisomeric forms. Dimetindene is commonly formulated as its maleic acid salt (dimethindene maleate) and has been marketed since 1960.

Brand names

FenistilVibrocil

Other names

dimethindene maleate