
Depending on your antihistamine, it may cause you to feel drowsy but will help relieve any allergy symptoms you’re experiencing.
Liquid – Also taken orally, in the form of liquid, this type of method is like a pill. However, with nasal sprays, you may be left feeling drowsy or have a bitter taste left behind in your mouth. Nasal Spray – With a spritz of spray through your nostrils, this will help relieve any itching or congestion you may have. Some OTC pills may cause drowsiness, leaving you feeling tired throughout the day. Pill – Taken orally, pills are great for easing a runny nose and itchy/watery eyes. “The antihistamine nasal spray can be used down to age 6 while the oral medications (liquid form) and eye drops with some products can be used down to age 2.”ĭepending on which method of antihistamine you decide to use, they each offer relief from those pesky allergy symptoms. “Antihistamines can be used in the forms of pills (mostly over the counter), nasal sprays (prescription only), and in various eye drops (both over the counter and prescription),” she says. Chong says there are many different ways antihistamines can be used. Children over the age of 12 and adults can take one 180-milligram tablet per day but should be on the lookout for side effects, like dizziness or nausea.Īccording to Laura Chong, MD, board-certified allergist of the Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic, “the main side effect to be on the lookout for is since it can cross the blood-brain barrier.”ĭr. There’s also fexofenadine, found in Allegra Adult 24-Hour Allergy Relief ( view on Amazon), which is the non-drowsy component that won’t put you to sleep.
However, it is important to note this antihistamine may cause drowsiness so keep that in mind if you are treating yourself or your child before school or work.
The antihistamine Cetirizine Hydrochloride found in GoodSense All Day Allergy ( view on Amazon) can treat indoor and outdoor symptoms and is safe for children 6 years old and up with a 10-milligram tablet limit per day. What to Look for in OTC Allergy Medicines Type of Antihistamine We looked at age recommendations, medicine formats, value, symptoms, and different types of antihistamines when reviewing products. “The best allergy medications are antihistamines,” says Allergist with Allergy & Asthma Network Dr. If you need a kid-friendly option, we suggest the Zyrtec 24 Hr Children’s Allergy Syrup.Īllergy medications may promise instant relief, but they each have different active ingredients with some possibly inducing drowsiness, while others may only treat specific allergies. The Allegra Adult Non-Drowsy Antihistamine Tablets provide quick, non-drowsy relief for both indoor and outdoor allergies.