Over the Counter Allergy Medication

An allergy is triggered when the human body identifies something as an “invader” and mounts a protective attack against it via the immune system. This is generally via the production of histamines, one of the many antibodies that your immune system can produce. For allergy sufferers, histamine production may be triggered in reaction to a food or food component (such as a coloring), a substance such as latex, or even dust, pollens, or medications. Millions of people suffer from some sort of allergy, and many of them can relieve their symptoms by the use of an over the counter allergy medication.

Over the counter allergy medications may include antihistamines, which block the production of histamines or decongestants. Some prescription-only allergy medications include corticosteroids, epinephrine, or immunotherapy. These are typically used for more severe allergic reactions; over the counter allergy medications are appropriate for mild, infrequent symptoms. All allergy medications, whether over the counter or prescription, may produce side effects, and people should be aware of these. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant and people taking other medications or supplements should seek the advice of a doctor before starting an over the counter allergy medication.

Allergy medications come in a wide variety of forms, including pills, inhalers, creams, nasal sprays, and injections. Most of the over the counter allergy medications are available as pills and nasal sprays. Some popular brands include Claritin, Zyrtec, Benadryl, Tylenol Sinus and Alavert. Many are available in a strength that provides 4-hour relief or longer-acting formulations: some as long as 24 hours. Keep in mind that the 4-hour dosage tends to begin working faster than the longer-lasting doses.

Side effects of over the counter allergy medications can include drowsiness (very common), dry mouth, constipation, and an increase in eye pressure. As a result of eye pressure as a side effect, many allergy medications are contraindicated in people with glaucoma, and people with glaucoma should consult a doctor prior to beginning any type of allergy regimen. Women that are pregnant, may become pregnant, or who are nursing should consult a physician before using over the counter allergy medications or any other treatment for allergies.

Nasal sprays are available over the counter. They should be used exactly as described on the packaging. The maximum length of use is generally three days. People who have used over the counter nasal sprays to treat allergy symptoms for longer than three days have reported ‘rebound swelling’ of the nose that has been difficult to eradicate.

People using over the counter allergy medications should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery when they first start a new medication or switch medications. This is because the first week or so of using allergy medications usually produces the most drowsiness. Your body will usually adjust to the medication and you won’t feel the drowsiness after a few days.

Different people react differently to the various formulations of allergy medication. If you try Claritin and it doesn’t work for you, try switching to Zyrtec, Alavert, or one of the other over the counter allergy medications. You’ll find one that works perfectly for what you need.