I had to hit all my histamine receptors to get any relief. There are histamine receptors in our gut and our bronchial airways. They also now know we have histamine receptors in our brain too. Unfortunately there's currently no antihistamine that targets histamine receptors in the brain although low dose Doxepin, which is a tricyclate antidepressant, seems to help some people. It's given at a very low dose... much lower than for depression. I can't tolerate the Doxepin, even at a low dose, but most people can.
What helps me is taking Zyrtec 10mg, Zantac 150mg twice daily, Singulair 10mg. Singulair is a prescription (as is Doxepin), the other medications are over the counter. For me this totally controls my hives. I've had this condition for over 20 years and this is the only medication(s) that have completely controlled my dermatographism.
I hope you find this information helps, and that you can find what works for you.
