What's the latest on allergy medicines?

Many different medicines are available to help control allergy symptoms when you can't avoid the things to which you are allergic.

Antihistamines

• Antihistamines are medicines that block the allergic reaction. They are available in tablets, syrups, and eye drops.
• Some over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl® cause drowsiness. Other over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin® do not cause drowsiness.
• Newer prescription antihistamines such as Claritin®, Allegra®, and Clarinex®, do not cause drowsiness (Zyrtec® may cause drowsiness).
• Some allergy medicines are available as a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant. Allegra-D®, Claritin-D® and Zyrtec-D® help to relieve allergy symptoms plus nasal congestion. If you have high blood pressure, ask your doctor before taking any of these.
• For eye allergy symptoms that don't respond to an antihistamine, check with your doctor about eye drops. There are a number of eye drops that include an antihistamine, decongestant or other anti-allergy treatments. Make sure you don't worsen eye symptoms by rubbing your eyes and exposing them to more pollen.
• Antihistamines interfere with allergy testing. Consult your doctor about which medicines you must stop taking before your scheduled allergy tests.

What kinds of antihistamines are available to me?
How should I prepare for my allegy testing?

Steroids

• Steroids  work by reducing inflammation and are only available by prescription.

• Several different types of medicines are available as nasal sprays to reduce symptoms of sneezing and a runny nose. Nasal steroid sprays require a prescription and are effective in reducing nasal symptoms triggered by allergies and irritants such as perfume and smoke.

Although a nasal decongestant spray doesn't require a prescription, use one with caution. It should be used only for a few days as longer use can cause a "rebound" effect that makes symptoms worse. There are also other types of nasal sprays to reduce symptoms.

• For allergic skin conditions such like hives (urticaria) , topical steroids are sometimes prescribed. There can be side effects with long-term use of these medicines and they should only be used under a doctor’s supervision.

Anti-IgE

• The newest class of allergy medications is called anti-IgE. These drugs work by preventing the release of histamine.

Leukotriene Modifiers

• Leukotriene modifiers are long-term control allergic asthma medications. They reduce swelling inside the airways and relax smooth muscles around the airways. Leukotriene modifiers are available as tablets. They are effective at improving asthma symptoms and lung function, but not to the same extent as inhaled steroids.

Click on the links below to learn more about the treatment of allergic conditions.

How can I use herbal supplements wisely?

Herbal supplements can interact with your medications or may be harmful for certain health conditions or medical procedures. Therefore, it is important to consult your healthcare provider before taking herbal remedies. Here is a checklist on steps to take for the safe use of herbal supplements.

How can I time allergy and asthma medications for the best effect?

Allergy and asthma sufferers can maximize the benefit of their medications by taking advantage of their bodies' natural circadian rhythms.

Why don’t antibiotics always help sinus infections?

Antibiotics not working? Allergy is just one of many possible causes of sinus infection.

This information has been approved by Yoshikazu Morimoto, MD (April 2006).