There are many different types of allergies, and therefore, there are many different allergy medications. Which one you need will depend on what you’re allergic to, what your symptoms are and how severe they are. So let’s break down the different kinds of allergy medications and what they’re best suited for, so you can make an informed decision that best treats your allergy needs.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are one of the most commonly used allergy meds. As the name implies, antihistamines block histamines, which are chemicals in the body that cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
They are available over the counter (OTC) and come in various forms, including pills, liquids, nasal sprays and eye drops. This accessibility and variability allow antihistamines to target your symptoms precisely where they’re occurring. Nasal sprays will target sneezing or an itchy nose, while eye drops will relieve itchy, swollen eyes.
Pills and liquids, which you take orally, build up antihistamines in your body. As such, they’re more effective if taken consistently and in advance of an allergic reaction.
Some common antihistamine brands are Zyrtec, Claritin and Allegra.
Decongestants
Decongestants decrease mucus production and reduce inflammation in the nasal passageways, reducing congestion and unblocking mucus buildups. Like antihistamines, they’re available as pills, liquids, nasal sprays and eye drops.
Unlike antihistamines, they target the symptom rather than inhibiting the allergic reaction itself. They also don’t need to accumulate like antihistamines, so if you already feel a stuffy nose coming on, a decongestant can bring quick, albeit temporary, relief.
Some common decongestant brands are Claritin-D and Sudafed.
Corticosteroids
These prescription steroids are effective at suppressing inflammation caused by allergies. They’re available as nasal sprays, eye drops, pills, liquids, skin creams and inhalers, the last of which is used if allergies are associated with asthma. A doctor or allergist will prescribe the form that will best target your allergy symptoms.
Some corticosteroids can have long-term risks, such as cataracts or glaucoma if using eye drops, nosebleeds if using a nasal spray, or high blood sugar or muscle weakness if using pills or liquid medicine. This is why they are prescription-only and should be used in close consultation with your healthcare provider.
Immunotherapy
If OTC medications aren’t providing the relief you need, and if prescription medications either aren’t working or aren’t appealing to you, immunotherapy is a long-term allergy treatment that decreases your body’s reaction to your allergic triggers altogether. By introducing the allergen to your body in controlled doses, the immune system’s tolerance for that allergen will grow.
Immunotherapy can be given as injections or taken orally. Both forms require taking doses regularly in order to build tolerance.
Our allergy specialists at ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons are highly trained in immunotherapy, as well as other forms of allergy treatment. Call us today for guidance on different treatment methods and find relief from your symptoms.