Antiallergy drugs and respiratory diseases in children.

Second generation antihistamines (anti H1) are effective for seasonal and p erannual rhinoconjunctivitis curative or preventive treatment in children. They are better tolerated than first generation drugs. They probably do not act specifically against asthma itself but are nevertheless useful for rel ief of nasal obstruction, which is an asthmogenic factor frequently linked with bronchial asthma. The therapeutic relevance of oral ketotifen and inha led chromones (sodium cromoglycate, nedocromil sodium) is unequally conside red among pediatricians. However, their efficacy has been clearly demonstra ted as a ground treatment in mild-to-moderate asthmatic children. Chromones are also useful in preventing exercise-induced asthma. Because of their lo w cost and the lack of potential side effects, mid according to the guideli nes established in 1997 by the National Heart, Lung and Bloom Institute, th ey should be prescribed at first sight in these indications. (C) 1999 Elsev ier, Paris.