Antihistamines refer to drugs that antagonize the action of histamines at H1 receptors. It is usually given as tablets for allergic disorders and other conditions such as colds, motion sickness and Parkinson’s disease. In India, Forensic Science Laboratories run by Government under the Home ministry usually carry out the toxicological analysis of these drugs. The samples have to be analyzed by the forensic toxicologist/chemists/scientist. This article deals with the screening/spot test for antihistamines. It attempts to simplify the standard procedures in a step-wise manner, which can be of handy reference for the forensic toxicologist.

Keywords: Antihistamines, Screening, Spot test etc.