Allergy medicine: what works and how to pick the right one

Runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing nonstop? Allergy medicine can help — but the right choice depends on your symptoms, lifestyle, and any other health issues you have. Below I’ll walk you through the most common options and give simple tips to get relief faster and safer.

Which allergy medicines actually work?

Antihistamines: These block histamine, the chemical that makes you sneeze and itch. Non-sedating options like loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra) work well for most people and can be taken daily. Older antihistamines (diphenhydramine/Benadryl) work fast but cause drowsiness — fine for bedtime but avoid driving or operating machinery.

Nasal corticosteroid sprays: Fluticasone (Flonase), budesonide (Rhinocort) and others reduce inflammation in your nose and are the best choice for chronic nasal congestion and sneezing. They take a few days to reach full effect, so start early in allergy season or use regularly during flare-ups.

Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine (oral) or oxymetazoline (Afrin nasal spray) shrink swollen nasal tissues fast. Use oral options short-term if you don’t have high blood pressure; nasal sprays should not be used more than 3 days in a row to avoid rebound congestion.

Eye drops and saline: For itchy, watery eyes, antihistamine eye drops work well. Saline nasal rinses clear pollen and mucus and are safe for daily use — a great first step before trying stronger meds.

Other options: Montelukast (Singulair) helps certain people, especially those with asthma. Allergy shots or sublingual tablets (immunotherapy) can reduce sensitivity over time if meds aren’t enough.

How to choose and use medicines safely

Match the drug to your main symptom: nasal steroid for congestion and sneezing, antihistamine for itching and hives, decongestant for blocked nose. Read labels and check for combination products that might duplicate ingredients (like cold/allergy pills that already contain an antihistamine and a decongestant).

Watch side effects: dry mouth, drowsiness, mood changes, or increased blood pressure. If you take blood pressure meds, are pregnant, or have other chronic conditions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting new meds.

Timing helps: take non-sedating antihistamines in the morning if you need daytime focus; use nasal steroid sprays daily for best results; don’t overuse nasal decongestant sprays.

If over-the-counter choices don’t control symptoms after a couple weeks, or if symptoms include high fever, severe sinus pain, wheezing, or swelling of the face or throat, see a doctor. Allergy testing and targeted treatments can make a big difference when OTC meds aren’t enough.

Want a quick plan? Try saline rinse daily, a non-sedating antihistamine for itching, and a nasal steroid for congestion. Keep a symptom diary so you and your clinician can pick the best long-term plan.