The extensively documented antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties of second-generation H 1 -antihistamines further enhance their therapeutic potential in asthma. Modern H 1 -antihistamines such as desloratadine, fexofenadine and levocetirizine, with wider therapeutic windows and similar antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties as the older compounds, may prove a safer alternative in the treatment of asthma. Further studies are needed to elucidate the role of modern H 1 -antihistamines in asthma management including their use in severe persistent or perennial asthma, and to evaluate their effects on lung function, tolerability at higher doses and long-term safety and efficacy.