Which drug class is used to prevent the release of histamine?

Mast cell stabilizers are a class of drugs specifically designed to prevent the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells. By stabilizing the mast cell membrane, these medications interfere with the processes that lead to the degranulation of mast cells, thus preventing histamine from being released during an allergic reaction. This action is particularly beneficial in managing conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, where excessive histamine release contributes to symptoms like bronchoconstriction and inflammation.

In contrast, antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine at its receptors rather than preventing its release. Expectorants help clear mucus from the airways but do not have a direct effect on histamine. Leukotriene receptor antagonists target leukotrienes involved in inflammatory responses but do not address mast cell mediator release directly. Thus, mast cell stabilizers are uniquely positioned to prevent the release of histamine, making them the correct answer in this context.