Antihistamines currently used drugs

In the era of pandemic preparedness and increasing resistance, early and definitive diagnosis of influenza is crucial. The currently available antiviral drugs are most effective if started within 48 hours of the onset of illness. Adjunct agents, such as acetaminophen for fever or an antihistamine for rhinitis, may be used concomitantly with the antiviral drugs. 

Table 16-2. Some Hi Antihistaminic Drugs in Past or Current Clinical Use. ... 

Numerous phase I clinical trials have already been conducted in the United States in which, using various protocols 156-160), the effects of taxol on solid tumors and on adult leukemia [a single study (767)] were evaluated. These studies have permitted determination of the doses (200-250 mg/m ) and the protocol (30 mg/m /day preceded by treatment with glucocorticoids and antihistamines) recommended for phase II evaluation, keeping in mind the main side effects caused by the solubilizing agent as well as leukopenic and neurotoxic effects. These phase II trials are currently underway, and only the results of one study (on a renal carcinoma) are presently available (762). It should be noted that one of the main obstacles to more rapid development of therapeutic uses of taxol is the very limited quantities of this drug available, for reasons already discussed. 

The benzimidazole scaffold is a useful structural motif for the development of molecules of pharmaceutical or biological interest. Appropriately substituted benzimidazole derivatives have foimd diverse therapeutic apphcations such as in antiulcers, antihypertensives, antivirals, antifungals, anticancers, and antihistaminics [3]. The optimization of benzimidazole-based structures has resulted in various drugs that are currently on the market, such as omeprazole 1 (proton pump inhibitor), pimobendan 2 (ionodilator), and mebendazole 3 (anthelmintic) (Fig. 1). The spectrum of pharmacological activity exhibited by benzimidazoles has been reviewed by several authors [3-6]. 

---