Allergy Medication Can Provide Relief from Symptoms

Allergy symptoms can range from bothersome nuisances to significant medical concerns. If your symptoms are seasonal or less severe, they may be able to be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications and nasal sprays. Whether you manage your allergies with medication or have more severe symptoms that require immunotherapy, our team at ENT and Allergy Center is here to ensure that you receive the best treatment possible.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines, frequently the go-to drug for treating allergies, work by blocking the chemical produced by the immune system called histamine that causes symptoms like sneezing, stuffy nose and itchy, watery eyes. They are available in tablets, capsules, liquids, nasal sprays and eye drops. Certain formulas may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness and nausea.

Popular antihistamines include:

• Allegra (fexofenadine)
• Claritin (loratadine)
• Tavist
• Zyrtec (cetirizine)
• Clarinex
• Xyzal (levocetirizine)
• Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
• Chlor-Trimeton

Nasal Corticosteroids

Nasal corticosteroids are nasal sprays that work by reducing inflammation of the nasal lining. These are not habit forming and safe for everyday use.

Common brands include:

• Flonase (fluticasone)
• Nasacort
• Rhinocort

It is important to aim the nozzle of the bottle toward the ear to avoid medication contact with the nasal septum. This can increase the incidence of nosebleeds.

Nasal Antihistamine Sprays

Nasal antihistamine sprays are also available over the counter and help to stop the allergic reaction in the nose. These are safe for every day use and CAN be used along with nasal corticosteroids.

Widely used brands include:

• Astepro
• Patanase

We do not recommend use of Afrin or other sprays containing oxymetazoline or phenylephrine for daily use. These formulations may contain decongestants which commonly cause a rebound effect.

Allergy Eye Drops

Allergy eye drops are effective in relieving symptoms like itchy, watery or burning eyes. They are available via prescription or over the counter.

Popular brands include:

• Pataday (olopatadine)
• Zaditor (ketotifen)

We do not recommend use of Visine or Clear Eyes for daily use. Both formulations may contain decongestants which commonly cause a rebound effect.

Mast Cell Inhibitors

Mast cell inhibitors prevent allergy symptoms by blocking the release of histamine when allergens are encountered. They should be taken a week or two before the start of allergy season and daily for its duration.

Mast cell inhibitors are available in the form of nasal sprays and eye drops. Options include:

• Gastrocrom
• Cromolyn Sodium
• Alocril
• Nasalcrom
• Alomide

Which Allergy Medication Will Work Best for Me?

The most appropriate allergy medication will depend on factors like your symptoms and health history. Allergy care is not one-size-fits-all, and our team at ENT and Allergy Center can help determine what will work best for your unique needs. Whether you’re just developing allergies or are looking for a solution to worsening symptoms, we’re here to help.