antihistamine

n. any drug or agent that inhibits the effects of histamine at central or peripheral histamine receptors, especially H₁ receptors. They may have sedative effects and are a common component of over-the-counter sleeping aids. Some are used in the treatment of allergic reactions or motion sickness (see diphenhydramine; dimenhydrinate). The so-called nonsedating antihistamines have less ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and are used solely in the management of allergic responses. Also called histamine antagonist.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

groupthink

n. a strong concurrence-seeking tendency that interferes with effective group decision making. Symptoms include apparent unanimity, illusions of invulnerability and moral correctness, biased perceptions of the outgroup, interpersonal pressure, self-censorship, and defective decision-making strategies. Causes are thought to include group cohesion and isolation, poor leadership, and the stress involved in making decisions. [identified by Irving L. Janis]