Which drug classification includes Allegra, Benadryl, Dimetane?

Which drug classification includes Allegra, Benadryl, Dimetane?

• A. Antibiotic
• B. Antidepressant
• C. Antihistamine
• D. Antiemetic

Answer: (C)

This item tests drug classification by action on histamine receptors. Allegra, Benadryl, and Dimetane are all antihistamines, meaning they block H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives. They differ in generation and side effects: Benadryl and Dimetane are first-generation antihistamines and can cause drowsiness and anticholinergic effects, while Allegra is a second-generation antihistamine with less sedative impact. The other classes listed don’t fit this mechanism—antibiotics treat infections, antidepressants affect mood, and antiemetics relieve nausea—so antihistamines is the correct grouping.

This item tests drug classification by action on histamine receptors. Allegra, Benadryl, and Dimetane are all antihistamines, meaning they block H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives. They differ in generation and side effects: Benadryl and Dimetane are first-generation antihistamines and can cause drowsiness and anticholinergic effects, while Allegra is a second-generation antihistamine with less sedative impact. The other classes listed don’t fit this mechanism—antibiotics treat infections, antidepressants affect mood, and antiemetics relieve nausea—so antihistamines is the correct grouping.