Antihistamine safety in older adult dermatologic patients

Twenty percent of Americans will be older than 65 years by 2030, and without a dedicated geriatrics curriculum in many residency trainings programs, dermatologists may be less familiar with ageassociated adverse effects of common dermatologic medications. Herein, we provide a practical guide and clinical safety pearls for the use of antihistamines in older adults. This Review aims to address the risks of antihistamines, anticholinergic burden and polypharmacy, pertinent preexisting medical conditions, and safe alternatives for aging adult patients. ( J Am Acad Dermatol 2022;87:381-6.)

Automated summary

This review highlights the lack of dedicated geriatrics curriculum in residency training programs for dermatologists, leading to their limited knowledge on age-associated adverse effects of common dermatologic medications. It provides a practical guide and clinical safety pearls for the use of antihistamines in older adults, addressing the risks, anticholinergic burden, polypharmacy, preexisting medical conditions, and safe alternatives.