Allergies have multiple symptoms, so there are several different types of medicine to treat them. A doctor or board certified allergist can make the best recommendation about the most appropriate medicine to treat allergy symptoms. The most common medications used to treat allergy symptoms are antihistamines and decongestants, which are sometimes used in combination.
An allergist might prescribe a prescription medication or recommend an over the counter medication to treat allergy symptoms. Sometimes multiple medications are used, depending upon the symptoms. Talk to the physician about any side effects, such as drowsiness. Following are some of the classes of medications used to treat allergies, including antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilator medication, corticosteroids, decongestants, ephinephrine, inhaled steroids and leukotriene inhibitors.
Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical the body releases during an allergic reaction, causing symptoms such as runny nose, swollen nasal passages, sneezing, running eyes and nasal stuffiness. Antihistamines cannot cure allergy symptoms, but they block the effect of histamine and provide relief from allergy symptoms. Antihistamines work best if they are taken before allergy symptoms, so they have a chance to build up in the system before exposure. Antihistamines that are from the first generation of these medicines had the side effect of drowsiness and sedation. The newer antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness and are safer for daytime use.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Medications, such as aspirin, that reduce the symptoms of inflammation, such as pain, swelling, and redness.
Bronchodilator Medication
These drugs relax tight muscles around lung airways and are used for asthma attacks.
Corticosteroids
Anti-inflammatory drugs that treat the itching and swelling associated with some allergic reactions. Topical corticosteroids are ointments used for rash, or dermatitis.
Decongestants
These medications reduce nasal congestion and allergy symptoms by constricting blood vessels and decreasing the fluid that leaks out into the nose. Decongestants come in pills, nasal sprays, liquids or tablets.
Epinephrine
A medication, sometimes called an EpiPen, used to immediately treat severe allergic reactions. Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, relaxes tightened muscles around the airways, improving breathing.
Inhaled Steroids
Nasal steroids reduce the swelling and congestion in the nose. Unlike steroids that are ingested, nasal steroids are delivered directly to the nose, throat and lungs. Inhaled nasal steroids have very few side effects.
Leukotriene Inhibitors
Medications that block leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals which cause tightening of the airways and mucus and fluid production. Leukotrienes can cause a tightening of the airways and makes it difficult to breathe.
Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. Consult a physician for additional information.
