The use of a non-sedating antihistamine in a hyperbaric environment

Abstract

Antihistamines are associated with drowsiness and are commonly taken by divers to relieve ENT symptoms and prevent serious injury, especially where the diver has no intention to discontinue diving to allow the infection or allergy to subside. Few studies have been conducted to test whether antihistamines aggravate nitrogen narcosis, cognitive or motor functions due to any alteration in their pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Study I was a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study, involving 50 subjects. The means of the 2 groups did not differ for diving experience, blood cell counts, liver and renal function (P< 0.05). Scales used to assess the subject mood and degree of sedation did not elucidate any statistically significant differences prior to the study. [excerpt]