What are the key differences between Zyrtec and Claritin. How do these popular antihistamines compare to other options like Allegra and Benadryl. Which antihistamine is most effective for treating various 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 immune system during an allergic reaction. But how exactly do antihistamines provide relief?

When an allergen enters the body, the immune system responds by producing histamine. This chemical causes many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with allergies, including:

• Inflammation of the skin or sinuses
• Pain and redness
• Wheezing
• Increased mucus production
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny nose

Antihistamines work by binding to histamine receptors in the body, preventing histamine from attaching and causing allergy symptoms. This dulls the body’s response to minor or harmless allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander.

Zyrtec vs. Claritin: Comparing Two Popular Antihistamine Options

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are two of the most widely used over-the-counter antihistamines. While they serve the same purpose, there are some key differences between these medications. How do they compare?

Active Ingredients

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

• Zyrtec contains cetirizine hydrochloride (cetirizine HCL)
• Claritin contains loratadine

Both are second-generation antihistamines, meaning they are less likely to cause drowsiness compared to older, first-generation options.

Onset and Duration of Action

How quickly do these antihistamines start working, and how long do their effects last? Both Zyrtec and Claritin are effective for about 24 hours, requiring only one dose per day. However, some studies suggest that Zyrtec may work faster for certain individuals.

A 2014 study found that both drugs were absorbed into the bloodstream within 1-2 hours of ingestion. This rapid absorption allows for quick relief of allergy symptoms.

Side Effects and Drowsiness

While both medications are less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines, there are some differences in their sedating effects:

• Zyrtec’s labeling advises against taking it when driving or operating machinery
• Claritin is generally considered less sedating than Zyrtec

It’s important to note that individual responses may vary, and some people may experience drowsiness with either medication.

Allegra and Benadryl: Alternative Antihistamine Options

While Zyrtec and Claritin are popular choices, they’re not the only antihistamines available. Allegra and Benadryl are two other well-known options. How do these compare?

Allegra (Fexofenadine)

Allegra is another second-generation antihistamine, similar to Zyrtec and Claritin. Its active ingredient is fexofenadine. Key features of Allegra include:

• Non-sedating formula
• 24-hour effectiveness
• Treats seasonal allergy symptoms

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

Benadryl differs from the other options discussed as it’s a first-generation antihistamine. Its active ingredient is diphenhydramine. Important characteristics of Benadryl include:

• Faster-acting than second-generation antihistamines
• More likely to cause drowsiness
• Primarily used for minor skin reactions rather than seasonal allergies
• Shorter duration of action, often requiring multiple doses per day

Effectiveness of Different Antihistamines: Which One Works Best?

When it comes to choosing the most effective antihistamine, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The effectiveness of these medications can vary from person to person. Some factors that can influence the efficacy include:

• Individual body chemistry
• Specific allergy symptoms
• Severity of allergies
• Tolerance developed over time

Is one antihistamine scientifically proven to be more effective than others? Despite marketing claims, there is little scientific evidence showing that any one of these antihistamines is consistently more effective than the others. Many studies have found comparable efficacy between Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra for treating allergy symptoms.

For some individuals, one medication may work better than others. It’s often a matter of trying different options to find the one that provides the most relief with the fewest side effects.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of Antihistamines

While antihistamines are generally safe for most people with minor allergies, they can cause side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. What are some important safety considerations to keep in mind?

Common Side Effects

Some potential side effects of second-generation antihistamines like Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra include:

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea

Benadryl, as a first-generation antihistamine, is more likely to cause drowsiness and may also lead to symptoms like blurred vision, constipation, and difficulty urinating.

Drug Interactions

Antihistamines can interact with other medications. Claritin, for example, is broken down in the liver by enzymes that can be inhibited by other drugs. This may lead to Claritin building up in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.

Always consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential drug interactions before starting a new medication.

Special Populations

Certain groups may need to exercise caution when using antihistamines:

• People with severe liver conditions may need to avoid loratadine (Claritin)
• Those with kidney problems should consult a doctor before using cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss antihistamine use with their healthcare provider
• Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to side effects

Choosing the Right Antihistamine: Factors to Consider

With several antihistamine options available, how can you determine which one is right for you? Consider the following factors when making your decision:

Symptom Relief

Different antihistamines may be more effective for certain symptoms. For example:

• Zyrtec and Allegra may be more effective for hives
• Claritin might work better for seasonal allergies in some individuals
• Benadryl is often chosen for acute allergic reactions or sleep aid due to its sedating effects

Onset and Duration of Action

Consider how quickly you need relief and how long you want the effects to last:

• Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra provide 24-hour relief
• Benadryl acts faster but requires more frequent dosing

Side Effect Profile

Think about which potential side effects you’re most concerned about:

• If drowsiness is a major concern, Claritin or Allegra might be preferable
• If you’re taking other medications, check for potential interactions

Cost and Availability

Compare prices and check if generic versions are available. All of these antihistamines are available over-the-counter, but costs can vary.

Natural Alternatives and Complementary Approaches to Allergy Management

While antihistamines are effective for many people, some individuals prefer natural alternatives or complementary approaches to managing allergies. What are some options to consider?

Dietary Supplements

Certain supplements may help alleviate allergy symptoms:

• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties
• Butterbur: Some studies suggest it may be as effective as antihistamines for allergic rhinitis
• Probiotics: May help modulate the immune system and reduce allergic responses

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Lifestyle Modifications

Several lifestyle changes can help reduce exposure to allergens and manage symptoms:

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
• Use dust-mite-proof covers on bedding
• Regularly clean and vacuum your living space

Nasal Irrigation

Using a neti pot or saline nasal spray can help flush out allergens and reduce nasal congestion.

Acupuncture

Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help relieve allergy symptoms, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

While these natural approaches can be helpful, they may not be sufficient for managing severe allergies. In such cases, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

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. When should you consult a healthcare provider about your allergies?

Severe or Persistent Symptoms

If your allergy symptoms are severe, persistent, or significantly impact your quality of life despite using over-the-counter medications, it’s time to see a doctor. They may recommend:

• Prescription-strength antihistamines
• Nasal corticosteroids
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
• Further testing to identify specific allergens

Signs of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea and vomiting

Unclear Diagnosis

If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms or suspect you may have developed new allergies, consult an allergist. They can perform tests to identify specific allergens and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Pregnancy or Underlying Health Conditions

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions, consult your healthcare provider before using any antihistamines or other allergy treatments.

Remember, while antihistamines like Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra, and Benadryl can provide effective relief for many people, managing allergies often requires a comprehensive approach. Working with a healthcare provider can help ensure you’re using the most appropriate and effective treatments for your specific situation.

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.

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.