Which antihistamine works best for allergy relief. How do Zyrtec and Claritin compare in effectiveness and side effects. What are the key differences between popular over-the-counter allergy medications. How quickly do various antihistamines start working to relieve allergy symptoms.

Understanding Antihistamines: How They Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms

Antihistamines are a class of medications commonly used to treat allergy symptoms. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. When histamine is released, it causes inflammation, itching, sneezing, and other uncomfortable allergy symptoms.

There are two main types of antihistamines:

• First-generation antihistamines: These older medications, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), tend to cause more drowsiness.
• Second-generation antihistamines: Newer options like Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are less likely to cause drowsiness.

Both types work to reduce allergy symptoms, but second-generation antihistamines are generally preferred for daytime use due to their reduced sedating effects.

Comparing Zyrtec and Claritin: Key Differences and Similarities

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are two of the most popular over-the-counter antihistamines. While they belong to the same class of medications, there are some notable differences between them:

Active Ingredients

The primary difference between Zyrtec and Claritin lies in their active ingredients:

• Zyrtec contains cetirizine hydrochloride
• Claritin contains loratadine

Both are second-generation antihistamines, but their unique chemical structures can lead to slight variations in how they affect individuals.

Onset of Action

How quickly do these antihistamines start working? Research suggests that Zyrtec may have a faster onset of action compared to Claritin. A 2014 study found that both medications were absorbed into the bloodstream within 1-2 hours of ingestion. However, some users report feeling relief from Zyrtec more quickly.

Duration of Effect

Both Zyrtec and Claritin are designed to provide 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms. This means that for most people, a single daily dose is sufficient to manage their allergies throughout the day and night.

Potential for Drowsiness

While both are considered non-drowsy antihistamines, Zyrtec may be slightly more likely to cause drowsiness in some individuals. The labeling for Zyrtec advises users to be cautious when driving or operating machinery, especially when first starting the medication.

Effectiveness of Zyrtec vs. Claritin: What Does the Research Say?

When it comes to effectiveness, studies have shown that Zyrtec and Claritin are generally equally effective at relieving allergy symptoms. However, individual responses can vary. Some people may find that one works better for them than the other.

A comprehensive review of antihistamine efficacy found that both cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) were effective at reducing symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, including:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Nasal congestion

The choice between Zyrtec and Claritin often comes down to personal preference and individual response. Some people may find that one medication works better for their specific allergy symptoms or causes fewer side effects.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations for Zyrtec and Claritin

While both Zyrtec and Claritin are generally safe for most people, they can cause some side effects. Common side effects for both medications may include:

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Are there any specific safety considerations for each medication? Yes, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

Zyrtec (Cetirizine) Safety Considerations

Zyrtec is primarily metabolized by the kidneys. This means it may be a better choice for people with liver conditions, as it doesn’t put additional strain on the liver. However, those with kidney problems should consult their doctor before taking Zyrtec.

Claritin (Loratadine) Safety Considerations

Claritin is metabolized by the liver. People with severe liver conditions should use caution and consult their healthcare provider before taking Claritin. Additionally, Claritin may have a higher potential for drug interactions compared to Zyrtec, as it relies on liver enzymes that can be affected by other medications.

Beyond Zyrtec and Claritin: Other Popular Antihistamine Options

While Zyrtec and Claritin are among the most well-known antihistamines, there are other popular options available over the counter. Two notable alternatives are Allegra and Benadryl.

Allegra (Fexofenadine)

Allegra is another second-generation antihistamine. Its active ingredient, fexofenadine, is known for being non-sedating. Key features of Allegra include:

• Fast-acting relief of allergy symptoms
• Low risk of drowsiness
• 24-hour effectiveness with once-daily dosing

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine, which sets it apart from Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra. Notable characteristics of Benadryl include:

• Faster onset of action compared to second-generation antihistamines
• Higher likelihood of causing drowsiness
• Shorter duration of effect, often requiring multiple doses per day
• Commonly used for acute allergic reactions and sleep aid

Can Benadryl be used interchangeably with second-generation antihistamines? While Benadryl can effectively treat allergy symptoms, its sedating effects make it less suitable for daytime use compared to Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra. It’s often reserved for nighttime use or acute allergic reactions.

Choosing the Right Antihistamine: Factors to Consider

Selecting the most effective antihistamine for your needs involves considering several factors:

1. Type of allergies: Some antihistamines may work better for certain types of allergies (e.g., seasonal vs. year-round).
2. Severity of symptoms: More severe allergies may respond better to certain medications.
3. Time of day: Consider when your allergy symptoms are worst and choose a medication that aligns with your schedule.
4. Potential side effects: Factor in how each medication might affect your daily activities.
5. Individual response: What works best for one person may not be ideal for another.
6. Other health conditions: Certain medical conditions may influence which antihistamine is safest for you.
7. Drug interactions: Consider any other medications you’re taking that could interact with antihistamines.

How can you determine which antihistamine works best for you? The most effective approach is often to try different options under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Keep track of how well each medication manages your symptoms and any side effects you experience.

Maximizing the Effectiveness of Antihistamines: Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of your antihistamine medication, consider the following tips:

• Take the medication as directed: Consistency is key for maintaining symptom relief.
• Be patient: Some antihistamines may take a few days of regular use to reach full effectiveness.
• Avoid alcohol: Drinking can increase the risk of side effects with many antihistamines.
• Combine with other allergy management strategies: Use nasal sprays, air purifiers, or allergen avoidance techniques for comprehensive relief.
• Consider timing: Taking your antihistamine at the same time each day can help maintain consistent blood levels of the medication.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help combat dry mouth, a common side effect of antihistamines.

Is it safe to take antihistamines long-term? For most people, long-term use of second-generation antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin is considered safe. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you’re using antihistamines regularly for extended periods.

When to Seek Professional Medical Advice for Allergy Management

While over-the-counter antihistamines can effectively manage many allergy symptoms, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary:

• Severe or persistent allergy symptoms that don’t respond to OTC treatments
• Allergic reactions that affect breathing or cause significant swelling
• Uncertainty about the cause of allergy symptoms
• Allergies that significantly impact quality of life
• Concerns about drug interactions or side effects
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, as some antihistamines may not be suitable

How can a healthcare provider help with allergy management? An allergist or immunologist can offer several benefits:

1. Accurate diagnosis: Through allergy testing, they can identify specific triggers.
2. Personalized treatment plans: They can recommend the most appropriate medications and dosages.
3. Alternative treatments: They may suggest options like immunotherapy for long-term allergy relief.
4. Monitoring: Regular check-ups can ensure your allergy management remains effective over time.

Remember, while antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin are widely available and effective for many people, severe or complex allergy cases may require more specialized care.

The Future of Antihistamines: Emerging Research and Developments

The field of allergy treatment is constantly evolving, with ongoing research into new and improved antihistamines. Some areas of current interest include:

• More targeted antihistamines: Researchers are working on medications that can more specifically target the histamine receptors involved in allergic reactions, potentially reducing side effects.
• Combination therapies: New products that combine antihistamines with other anti-allergy compounds are being developed to provide more comprehensive symptom relief.
• Improved delivery methods: Innovations in drug delivery systems may lead to antihistamines with faster onset or longer-lasting effects.
• Personalized medicine: Advances in genetic research may eventually allow for more tailored antihistamine prescriptions based on an individual’s genetic profile.

What potential breakthroughs are on the horizon for allergy sufferers? While it’s difficult to predict specific advancements, the continuous research in immunology and pharmacology suggests that more effective and personalized allergy treatments may become available in the coming years.

As our understanding of allergic mechanisms deepens, we may see the development of antihistamines that not only manage symptoms more effectively but also potentially modify the course of allergic diseases.

In conclusion, while Zyrtec and Claritin remain popular and effective options for many allergy sufferers, the landscape of antihistamine treatments continues to evolve. By staying informed about current options and emerging developments, individuals can work with their healthcare providers to find the most effective allergy management strategies for their unique needs.

What is the best antihistamine for allergies?

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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Many people use antihistamines to treat allergy symptoms. Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratidine) are two popular brands. They contain different compounds but appear to be equally effective.

Antihistamines can reduce allergy symptoms, such as watering eyes, itchy skin, hives, and swelling. They may also help with dermatitis or even mosquito bites, but manufacturers usually market them for specific allergies.

Zyrtec is a brand name for the drug cetirizine. Claritin is the brand name for loratidine. Zyretc and Claritin are in the same class of medications. Both are second-generation antihistamines, and they generally work the same way in the body. Neither is clearly better than the other.

In this article, we provide detail about the differences between Zyrtec and Claritin. We also compare them to two other popular brands of antihistamines: Benadryl and Allegra.

Share on PinterestPeople can purchase Zyrtec and Claritin without prescription. They are available as pills, chewable tablets, and syrups.

Zyrtec and Claritin are brand-name medications that people can buy over the counter. They are available in various forms, including pills, chewable tablets, and syrups.

Regardless of marketing claims, little scientific evidence shows that either is more effective.

Active ingredients

Zyrtec and Claritin have different active compounds.

Zyrtec contains cetirizine hydrochloride, also called cetirizine HCL, while Claritin contains loratadine.

Drowsiness

Zyrtec and Claritin are second-generation antihistamines. They are less likely to make a person feel drowsy or otherwise affect alertness than older, first-generation antihistamines.

The labeling of Zyrtec says that a person should not take it when driving a vehicle or using machinery. People should avoid taking Zyrtec with alcohol or other medicines that could cause drowsiness.

Timescales

Zyrtec and Claritin are effective for about 24 hours. A person should only take one dose per day. The body absorbs both antihistamines quickly, but Zyrtec seems to work faster for some people.

A 2014 study found that both drugs were absorbed into the bloodstream within 1–2 hours of taking the medication.

Researchers are often studying, comparing, and improving antihistamines. Other popular brands on the market today are Allegra and Benadryl.

• Allegra contains the active ingredient fexofenadine. Allegra is non-sedating, so it should not make a person feel drowsy. Allegra is also a second-generation antihistamine.
• Benadryl contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine. This acts faster than the other three and aims to treat minor skin reactions, not seasonal allergies. Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine, which makes it sedating, so people tend to feel drowsy after taking it.

When a person comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system reacts and produces a chemical called histamine.

Histamine causes many allergy symptoms, including inflammation of the skin or sinuses, pain, redness, and wheezing.

Immune responses also encourage extra mucus to develop, which helps to clear allergens from the nose and throat.

Allergy medications block histamine responses. This dulls the body’s response to minor or harmless allergens, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander.

Share on Pinterest Zyrtec and Claritin are safe for most people with minor allergies, but side effects can include headaches and dizziness.

Claritin and Zyrtec are effective and safe for most people with minor allergies. However, as with all medications, there may be some side effects.

Loratadine—present in Claritin—may not be safe for people with severe liver conditions. The liver has to break down loratadine. The kidneys break down cetirizine—found in Zyrtec—and the body excretes it in the urine, largely unchanged.

Claritin is more likely to interact with other drugs than Zyrtec. Claritin is broken down in the liver by enzymes that other drugs can inhibit. This may lead to Claritin building up in the body, which increases the risk of side effects.

Everyone reacts to medications differently, but Claritin and Zyrtec may have the following side effects:

• drowsiness, which is more likely when taking Zyrtec than Claritin
• a headache
• dizziness or light-headedness
• a sore throat
• dry mouth
• constipation or diarrhea
• abdominal cramps and pain
• eye redness

Some people experience a severe allergic response called anaphylaxis after taking antihistamines. A person should seek emergency medical attention if any of the following symptoms are present:

• hives
• a swollen throat
• swollen lips or face
• trouble breathing or other respiratory symptoms
• a racing heartbeat

Some antihistamines are safe for children, but it is a good idea to talk with a doctor or check the label carefully before giving antihistamines to a child.

In 2012, a review found that some antihistamines may be problematic during pregnancy. However, the authors noted that there was no evidence linking cetirizine or loratidine to birth defects.

A study published in 2014 noted that 10–15 percent of women use antihistamines during pregnancy. Most appear to be safe, but some may have adverse effects.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge people to ask a doctor before using an antihistamine or any other drug during pregnancy.

Claritin and Zyrtec are popular over-the-counter antihistamines. Doctors consider them safe and effective treatments for minor allergies.

Both are second-generation antihistamines. These cause less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines.

No research has concluded that Zyrtec or Claritin is more effective, but some people report better responses with one or the other. The slight differences between the two may make one drug more appropriate for some people.

People can purchase Zyrtec, Claritin, and other popular brands without a prescription from supermarkets, pharmacies, and online stores.

What is the best antihistamine for allergies?

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Many people use antihistamines to treat allergy symptoms. Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratidine) are two popular brands. They contain different compounds but appear to be equally effective.

Antihistamines can reduce allergy symptoms, such as watering eyes, itchy skin, hives, and swelling. They may also help with dermatitis or even mosquito bites, but manufacturers usually market them for specific allergies.

Zyrtec is a brand name for the drug cetirizine. Claritin is the brand name for loratidine. Zyretc and Claritin are in the same class of medications. Both are second-generation antihistamines, and they generally work the same way in the body. Neither is clearly better than the other.

In this article, we provide detail about the differences between Zyrtec and Claritin. We also compare them to two other popular brands of antihistamines: Benadryl and Allegra.

Share on PinterestPeople can purchase Zyrtec and Claritin without prescription. They are available as pills, chewable tablets, and syrups.

Zyrtec and Claritin are brand-name medications that people can buy over the counter. They are available in various forms, including pills, chewable tablets, and syrups.

Regardless of marketing claims, little scientific evidence shows that either is more effective.

Active ingredients

Zyrtec and Claritin have different active compounds.

Zyrtec contains cetirizine hydrochloride, also called cetirizine HCL, while Claritin contains loratadine.

Drowsiness

Zyrtec and Claritin are second-generation antihistamines. They are less likely to make a person feel drowsy or otherwise affect alertness than older, first-generation antihistamines.

The labeling of Zyrtec says that a person should not take it when driving a vehicle or using machinery. People should avoid taking Zyrtec with alcohol or other medicines that could cause drowsiness.

Timescales

Zyrtec and Claritin are effective for about 24 hours. A person should only take one dose per day. The body absorbs both antihistamines quickly, but Zyrtec seems to work faster for some people.

A 2014 study found that both drugs were absorbed into the bloodstream within 1–2 hours of taking the medication.

Researchers are often studying, comparing, and improving antihistamines. Other popular brands on the market today are Allegra and Benadryl.

• Allegra contains the active ingredient fexofenadine. Allegra is non-sedating, so it should not make a person feel drowsy. Allegra is also a second-generation antihistamine.
• Benadryl contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine. This acts faster than the other three and aims to treat minor skin reactions, not seasonal allergies. Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine, which makes it sedating, so people tend to feel drowsy after taking it.

When a person comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system reacts and produces a chemical called histamine.

Histamine causes many allergy symptoms, including inflammation of the skin or sinuses, pain, redness, and wheezing.

Immune responses also encourage extra mucus to develop, which helps to clear allergens from the nose and throat.

Allergy medications block histamine responses. This dulls the body’s response to minor or harmless allergens, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander.

Share on Pinterest Zyrtec and Claritin are safe for most people with minor allergies, but side effects can include headaches and dizziness.

Claritin and Zyrtec are effective and safe for most people with minor allergies. However, as with all medications, there may be some side effects.

Loratadine—present in Claritin—may not be safe for people with severe liver conditions. The liver has to break down loratadine. The kidneys break down cetirizine—found in Zyrtec—and the body excretes it in the urine, largely unchanged.

Claritin is more likely to interact with other drugs than Zyrtec. Claritin is broken down in the liver by enzymes that other drugs can inhibit. This may lead to Claritin building up in the body, which increases the risk of side effects.

Everyone reacts to medications differently, but Claritin and Zyrtec may have the following side effects:

• drowsiness, which is more likely when taking Zyrtec than Claritin
• a headache
• dizziness or light-headedness
• a sore throat
• dry mouth
• constipation or diarrhea
• abdominal cramps and pain
• eye redness

Some people experience a severe allergic response called anaphylaxis after taking antihistamines. A person should seek emergency medical attention if any of the following symptoms are present:

• hives
• a swollen throat
• swollen lips or face
• trouble breathing or other respiratory symptoms
• a racing heartbeat

Some antihistamines are safe for children, but it is a good idea to talk with a doctor or check the label carefully before giving antihistamines to a child.

In 2012, a review found that some antihistamines may be problematic during pregnancy. However, the authors noted that there was no evidence linking cetirizine or loratidine to birth defects.

A study published in 2014 noted that 10–15 percent of women use antihistamines during pregnancy. Most appear to be safe, but some may have adverse effects.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge people to ask a doctor before using an antihistamine or any other drug during pregnancy.

Claritin and Zyrtec are popular over-the-counter antihistamines. Doctors consider them safe and effective treatments for minor allergies.

Both are second-generation antihistamines. These cause less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines.

No research has concluded that Zyrtec or Claritin is more effective, but some people report better responses with one or the other. The slight differences between the two may make one drug more appropriate for some people.

People can purchase Zyrtec, Claritin, and other popular brands without a prescription from supermarkets, pharmacies, and online stores.

How to choose the best remedy for allergies – an article on the site Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Allergy is a protective reaction of the immune system, aimed at combating substances foreign to the body. Symptoms of the disease are manifested due to the erroneous perception of a harmless foreign material as dangerous to the body. To get rid of such a reaction, you need to know what is best to take from allergies.

Allergy symptoms

The protective reaction of the body can cause severe discomfort or be dangerous to human life and health. The main symptoms of allergies include:

• sneezing, watery eyes, runny sinus discharge;

• dry cough, breathing becomes difficult and intermittent;

• shortness of breath caused by swelling of the respiratory system;

• rashes and redness on the skin, itching.

The best drug for allergies can block the effects of foreign bodies on the human body.

Classification of preparations

Allergy medicines are divided into 3 large groups. Classification is carried out according to the method of exposure:

• Antihistamines – block the formation of histamine in the human body. They are considered the best allergy medicine, as they act on the cause of the reaction, and do not eliminate the symptoms.

• Steroids – reduce the inflammatory process, are prescribed when the disease affects the human respiratory system.

• Decongestants – reduce swelling in the sinuses, are used as additional treatments aimed at relieving symptoms.

First generation drugs

The main active substance penetrates directly into the nervous system, which allows you to quickly stop the symptoms of the disease.

Pros:

Flaws:

• with prolonged use, they are addictive, therefore they are suitable only for a one-time removal of symptoms.

• cause an adverse reaction in the form of drowsiness, lethargy, headache.

The best 1st generation allergy pills:

• Diphenhydramine – used to provide quick relief during an attack, not suitable for children;

• Suprastin – in comparison with other drugs of the group, it has the least number of adverse reactions;

• Tavegil – the time of action of the active substance is 8 hours, which is much longer than other tablets belonging to the 1st generation.

Medicines of the 1st generation quickly act on the focus of the disease and help relieve allergy symptoms in the shortest possible time.

Second generation drugs

Antihistamines belonging to the 2nd generation are devoid of the shortcomings of the previous version of the drugs.

Pros:

• restore the immune system, can be used for a single dose or course therapy, are not addictive;

• do not cause adverse reactions of the body, characteristic of the 1st generation of drugs;

• block allergy symptoms for 24 hours.

Flaws:

When answering the question which allergy pills are better, it is worth considering the following 2nd generation drugs:

• Fenistil – available in the form of drops or gel, which allows you to take the drug orally or use it for local exposure;

• Claritin is a safe drug with a mild effect on the body. Suitable for children from 3 years old, adults and the elderly. Does not cause impaired concentration, drowsiness;

• Histalong – has a long-term effect, suitable for course treatment of the chronic form of the disease.

Medicines of the second group are an improved analogue of the first anti-allergy drugs.

3rd generation drugs

Officially, 3 generations of antihistamines do not exist. However, modern drugs of the second group are considered the best remedies for allergies today.

Pros:

• allowed for children, the elderly. Do not affect the cardiovascular system;

• have the least number of adverse reactions, are compatible with driving cars;

• the action occurs 2 hours after ingestion, lasts up to 48 hours.

Minuses:

Medicines of the 3rd generation:

• Zodak – the best drops for allergies, which quickly eliminate symptoms and act for 2 days. Also available in tablet form;

• Cetrin – effectively relieves swelling and other symptoms of the disease;

• Erius – the effect of the drug begins within a few minutes after ingestion, which allows you to quickly remove an allergic reaction.

It is impossible to single out the best allergy pills unambiguously. Each generation of drugs is used for different purposes. For course administration and elimination of symptoms, it is recommended to choose the latest generation of drugs. You can choose effective tablets or drops in consultation with your doctor.

The most effective new generation allergy pills, which medicine is best

Publication date: 09/27/2021

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED. 0005

• Allergies
• Sun allergy
• Inexpensive but effective allergy pills
• New generation allergy pills
• Symptomatic medications
• Resources

Allergy is the reaction of the immune system to exposure to substances that usually do not harm a person (food, drugs, plant pollen). But acting as an allergen, they provoke the production of antibodies, resulting in negative symptoms. Allergic reactions with varying degrees of manifestation occur at any age.

You cannot get rid of pathology forever, but modern allergy pills allow you to reliably stop its symptoms and forget about the problem for a long time. However, before purchasing an antiallergic agent, you need to visit a doctor and establish the cause of the development of unpleasant symptoms.

Types of allergies

There are several types of allergies:

• Respiratory (respiratory) – some odors, dust, plant pollen cause allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis.
• Food – certain products lead to the development of a variety of manifestations: small isolated or more extensive, combined lesions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), skin, respiratory organs.
• Medicinal – drugs increase the sensitivity of the body and cause allergic symptoms.
• Insect – occurs when an insect bites or comes into contact with their waste products.

The most dangerous manifestation of allergy is anaphylactic shock. It develops in a matter of minutes in response to the ingestion of medicines, insect venom, blood products.

Some people develop negative symptoms when exposed to sunlight.

Allergy to the sun

Allergic effect of the sun is manifested by the interaction of ultraviolet rays with substances found on the skin or in the skin. In sensitive people, allergies occur when exposed to ultraviolet radiation on the skin, which has come into contact with the pollen of certain plants. Also, an allergic reaction can occur if creams, ointments, perfumes, deodorants are used before going outside. Often, sulfonamides, antibiotics, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), statins become the cause of photodermatosis.

Photodermatosis manifests itself on the skin:

• redness and inflammation;
• peeling;
• itching and burning;
• rashes.

It is very important to identify the cause of the allergy and take the necessary measures at the initial stage of its occurrence. Advanced stages lead to the development of such serious pathologies as bronchial asthma, eczema, sinusitis.

Inexpensive but effective allergy pills

Two categories of drugs are used for treatment – antihistamines (eliminate the cause of the reaction) and symptomatic (help to remove the consequences of manifestations).

Antihistamines are medicines that prevent the release of histamine. It is this substance that excites cells to resist various external factors. There are already 3 generations of drugs, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

I generation

These inexpensive products are used when you need a quick effect. But they are not used for long-term treatment. A significant drawback of these medicines is side effects, manifested by drowsiness, lethargy, and headache. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating mothers. The most famous drugs: Tavegil, Suprastin, Diphenhydramine.

II generation

These more modern drugs have virtually no sedative effect. With a frequency of admission 1 time per day, they can be taken up to 4 weeks. If the benefit exceeds the potential risk, pregnant women are allowed to take it. Zirtek, Loratadin-VERTEX, Claritin have proven themselves well. These preparations can be used even for children.

All products Suprastin

20 reviews

All products Zyrtec

3 reviews

All products Claritin

20 reviews

All products Tavegil

20 reviews

Allergy pills of the new generation

Third generation drugs include fexofenadine or desloratadine. Thanks to these substances, they are not addictive, so you can take them for more than a month.

Anti-allergic preparations containing fexofenadine eliminate allergic symptoms: runny nose, sneezing, itchy skin. Their action begins within an hour after ingestion and lasts 12 hours. Allowed for children from 6 years old. Preparations with fexofenadine are produced under the names Telfast, Gifast, Allegra.

Products with desloratadine not only fight allergies, but also have an anti-inflammatory effect. Extremely rarely cause drowsiness, do not affect the functioning of the cardiovascular system (CVS). They begin to act 30-40 minutes after application. The most effective inexpensive allergy pills: Erius, Ezlor, Desal. Preparations in the form of syrup are allowed for children from the age of one.

All products Erius

20 reviews

All products Allegra

5 reviews

All products Desal

5 reviews

All products Ezlor

5 reviews

Symptomatic drugs

The possibilities of antihistamines are not always enough to remove all allergic manifestations. Relieve itching, runny nose, symptoms of conjunctivitis help symptoms.

Nasal sprays and drops to help relieve allergies. According to doctors and patients, allergy remedies are the most effective:

• Tizin Allergy causes an effect 5 minutes after application. Duration of action – up to 12 hours. Approved for use by children from 6 years of age, pregnant women – if the expected benefit outweighs the risks;
• Allergodil – does not contain hormones, can be used for prophylactic purposes.

To eliminate lacrimation and itching of the eyes, eye drops Vizin, Allomid are used. Effective Santen (Santen AL Free) – eye drops for allergies. Country of origin: Japan. Remove redness and itching. But these drops are not a drug. Released without a prescription.

Teagel, a specially developed gel for eyelids and eyelashes, will also help alleviate the condition. It removes allergens from the surface of the eyelids and normalizes the condition of the skin.

Antihistamines greatly relieve allergies. But, like any medicine, they have side effects and contraindications. And some of them are used only in a hospital setting.