Why does allergy medicine make you sleepy. How can you avoid drowsiness from antihistamines. What are the differences between first-generation and second-generation antihistamines. How do nasal spray antihistamines affect drowsiness. What precautions should you take when using cold and flu medications.

The Science Behind Antihistamine-Induced Drowsiness

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies and cold symptoms, but many people experience drowsiness as a side effect. To understand why this happens, we need to explore the role of histamine in our bodies.

Histamine is a chemical produced by the immune system to combat allergens and germs. During allergic reactions or infections, histamine production increases, leading to symptoms like runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, thus alleviating these symptoms.

However, histamine also plays a crucial role in the brain, helping us stay awake and alert. When antihistamines enter the brain, they can interfere with this function, resulting in drowsiness.

How do antihistamines affect the brain?

Antihistamines block histamine receptors in the brain, which can lead to decreased alertness and increased sleepiness. This effect varies depending on the type of antihistamine and individual sensitivity.

First-Generation vs. Second-Generation Antihistamines

Not all antihistamines are created equal when it comes to causing drowsiness. Understanding the differences between first-generation and second-generation antihistamines can help you make informed choices about your allergy medication.

First-generation antihistamines

First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), are more likely to cause drowsiness. These medications can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, affecting the histamine produced in the brain and leading to sedation.

Second-generation antihistamines

Newer, second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec®), fexofenadine (Allegra®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are marketed as “non-drowsy” options. These medications are less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in reduced drowsiness for most users.

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec®): May cause mild drowsiness in some users
• Fexofenadine (Allegra®): Generally considered the least sedating
• Loratadine (Claritin®): Usually causes minimal drowsiness

Strategies to Minimize Drowsiness from Allergy Medications

If you’re struggling with drowsiness caused by allergy medications, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize this side effect:

1. Take antihistamines in the evening: This can help you benefit from the drowsy effects while sleeping, with the effects potentially wearing off by morning.
2. Try different antihistamines: Reactions vary from person to person, so experimenting with different types may help you find one that works without causing excessive drowsiness.
3. Consider nasal spray antihistamines: These target nasal passages directly and are less likely to cause systemic drowsiness.
4. Use intranasal corticosteroids: Regular use of these can help reduce reliance on antihistamines and may cause fewer side effects.
5. Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking antihistamines can increase sedation.

Are there any non-drowsy Benadryl options?

Currently, there is no non-drowsy version of Benadryl® on the market. If you’re looking for a less sedating option, consider trying second-generation antihistamines or consult with your healthcare provider for alternatives.

Nasal Spray Antihistamines and Drowsiness

Nasal spray antihistamines offer a targeted approach to allergy relief and may be less likely to cause drowsiness compared to oral antihistamines. These medications work directly on nasal passages, reducing the amount of medication that enters the bloodstream and potentially reaches the brain.

How effective are nasal spray antihistamines?

Nasal spray antihistamines can be highly effective for treating nasal allergy symptoms. They typically start working faster than oral antihistamines and may provide more localized relief. However, they are available only by prescription, so you’ll need to consult with your healthcare provider to obtain them.

The Role of Intranasal Corticosteroids in Allergy Management

Intranasal corticosteroids are another option for managing allergy symptoms, particularly nasal congestion and inflammation. These medications can be an effective way to reduce reliance on antihistamines and may cause fewer systemic side effects.

How do intranasal corticosteroids compare to antihistamines?

Intranasal corticosteroids work differently from antihistamines by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. They can be highly effective for managing nasal allergy symptoms and are less likely to cause drowsiness. However, they may take a few days to start working, so patience is key when beginning treatment.

• Available over-the-counter or by prescription
• May be used in combination with antihistamines initially
• Regular use is safe and effective for long-term symptom management

Cold and Flu Medications: Hidden Sources of Drowsiness

Many people may not realize that cold and flu medications often contain antihistamines, which can contribute to drowsiness. Understanding the ingredients in these medications is crucial for managing side effects and ensuring safe use.

Why do cold and flu medications contain antihistamines?

Cold and flu medications often include first-generation antihistamines because they are effective at treating cold symptoms and drying up runny noses. However, this also means they are more likely to cause drowsiness.

• Many cold and flu medications are labeled for nighttime use due to their sedating effects
• Some contain highly sedating antihistamines like doxylamine
• Always check labels for dosages and ingredients

How can you safely use cold and flu medications?

To use cold and flu medications safely and minimize drowsiness:

1. Read labels carefully and follow dosage instructions
2. Avoid combining multi-symptom cold medications with additional antihistamines
3. Be aware of nighttime formulations and their potential for causing drowsiness
4. Consider using daytime formulations that contain non-drowsy antihistamines

Beyond Antihistamines: Alternative Allergy Management Strategies

While antihistamines can be effective for managing allergy symptoms, they’re not the only option available. Exploring alternative strategies can help you find a more comprehensive approach to allergy management that minimizes side effects like drowsiness.

What are some non-medication approaches to managing allergies?

Consider these non-medication strategies for managing allergies:

• Identify and avoid allergen triggers
• Use air purifiers to reduce airborne allergens
• Practice nasal irrigation to flush out allergens
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair

Are there long-term treatment options for allergies?

For those with persistent allergies, long-term treatment options may be worth considering:

1. Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)
2. Biologics for severe allergic conditions
3. Lifestyle modifications to reduce allergen exposure

These options can potentially provide lasting relief and reduce the need for daily antihistamine use.

When to Consult an Allergist

While over-the-counter antihistamines can be effective for many people, there are situations where it’s advisable to consult with a board-certified allergist for a more comprehensive approach to allergy management.

When should you see an allergist for your allergies?

Consider scheduling an appointment with an allergist if:

• Your allergy symptoms last longer than two weeks
• Over-the-counter medications aren’t adequately controlling your symptoms
• You’re experiencing significant side effects from your allergy medications
• You’re unsure about what’s causing your allergic reactions
• Your allergies are interfering with your daily life or quality of sleep

An allergist can provide a full diagnosis, identify specific allergens, and offer personalized treatment plans that may include options beyond traditional antihistamines.

What additional treatment options can an allergist offer?

Allergists have access to a wider range of treatment options, including:

1. Prescription-strength antihistamines and corticosteroids
2. Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)
3. Biologic medications for severe allergic conditions
4. Comprehensive allergy testing to identify specific triggers
5. Personalized action plans for managing allergies in various situations

By working with an allergist, you can develop a more targeted approach to managing your allergies while minimizing side effects like drowsiness.

The Future of Allergy Medications: Emerging Trends and Research

As our understanding of allergies and immune responses continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for allergy treatment that may offer relief with fewer side effects.

What new developments are on the horizon for allergy treatments?

Several promising areas of research are underway in the field of allergy treatment:

• Targeted biologics that interfere with specific allergy pathways
• Novel drug delivery systems for more localized treatment
• Gene therapy approaches to modulate immune responses
• Microbiome-based interventions to promote immune balance
• Personalized medicine approaches based on individual genetic profiles

These emerging treatments may offer more precise ways to manage allergies with potentially fewer systemic side effects like drowsiness.

How might future allergy treatments differ from current antihistamines?

Future allergy treatments may diverge from traditional antihistamines in several ways:

1. More targeted approaches that don’t affect brain function
2. Longer-lasting effects, reducing the need for daily medication
3. Treatments that address the root cause of allergies rather than just symptoms
4. Combination therapies that provide comprehensive allergy management
5. Personalized treatments based on individual allergy profiles and genetic factors

While these advancements are still in development, they offer hope for more effective and less disruptive allergy management in the future.

Balancing Allergy Relief and Daily Function: Making Informed Choices

Managing allergies effectively while minimizing side effects like drowsiness requires a thoughtful approach and often some trial and error. By understanding the mechanisms behind antihistamine-induced drowsiness and exploring various treatment options, you can work towards finding a balance that provides relief without compromising your daily function.

How can you find the right balance in your allergy management?

Consider the following strategies to optimize your allergy management:

• Keep a symptom and medication diary to track effectiveness and side effects
• Experiment with different types of antihistamines to find what works best for you
• Combine medication approaches, such as using intranasal corticosteroids with non-drowsy antihistamines
• Adjust medication timing to align with your daily schedule and sleep patterns
• Implement environmental control measures to reduce allergen exposure
• Consider long-term treatment options like immunotherapy for lasting relief

Remember that everyone’s experience with allergies and medications is unique. What works well for one person may not be the best solution for another. Be patient with yourself as you work to find the most effective approach for your individual needs.

What role does lifestyle play in managing allergy symptoms and medication side effects?

Your lifestyle choices can significantly impact both your allergy symptoms and how you respond to medications. Consider these factors:

1. Sleep hygiene: Prioritize getting adequate, quality sleep to help counteract potential drowsiness from medications
2. Diet: Some foods may exacerbate allergy symptoms or interact with medications
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost overall health and potentially improve allergy resilience
4. Stress management: High stress levels can worsen allergy symptoms and affect medication responses
5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help flush out allergens and support overall health

By taking a holistic approach to your health and allergy management, you can work towards minimizing both allergy symptoms and medication side effects, allowing you to live your life to the fullest despite allergies.

When Allergy or Cold Medication Makes You Drowsy

Tips for Staying Alert

By Purvi Parikh, MD

In treating allergies or a cold with antihistamines, you may experience drowsiness, a common side effect of the medication.

How does this happen? Histamine is a chemical produced by the immune system to fight off allergens and germs. When there is a threat of allergies or infection (such as the common cold), histamine is even more active. In its search-and-destroy process, it can cause allergy or cold symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, sneezing and itch eyes. Antihistamine medications relieve these symptoms by blocking the unwanted effects of histamine.

Unrelated to the immune system, histamine is also produced in the brain, where it plays an important part in feeling awake. Antihistamines used to treat respiratory symptoms can get into the brain and interrupt this work, making you feel drowsy.

What can you do about drowsiness from allergy medicines?

Some antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness than others. Reactions vary considerably from one person to another. What relieves your symptoms without making you sleepy may be different from what works for someone else.

When you find one that works for you, stick with it – check chemical ingredients and dosages before changing brands or generics. On the other hand, if one doesn’t work for you, try another type.

Does diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) make you sleepy? First-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) usually cause drowsiness because they are less likely to affect the histamine produced in the brain or have other unwanted effects in the brain. Currently, there is no non-drowsy Benadryl® on the market.

Non-drowsy allergy medicines do exist. Newer, second-generation antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec®), fexofenadine (Allegra®) and loratadine (Claritin®) – marketed as “nonsedating” – usually cause less drowsiness. An added benefit is that second-generation antihistamines last longer than Benadryl. Allegra is generally the least sedating.

Nasal spray antihistamines are also somewhat less likely to make you sleepy, since they target nasal passages directly rather than sending medicine throughout your body in the bloodstream. These are available only by prescription.

Regular use of an intranasal corticosteroid is not only safe but also an effective way to reduce use of antihistamines. They take a few days to start working, so you need to be patient. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using an antihistamine with an intranasal corticosteroid the first few days. Some intranasal corticosteroids are available over-the-counter, while others are available as prescription medication.

To avoid daytime drowsiness, take an antihistamine in the evening rather than in the morning. It may help you sleep, with drowsy effects wearing off by the next morning. Be aware that drowsiness can last longer than you might expect – and that some antihistamines can cause vivid dreams.

Don’t drink alcohol when taking antihistamines, as it will increase the sedation.

What about antihistamines in cold and flu medications?

What many people may not know is that cold and flu medicines marketed to treat runny nose and sneezing usually include first-generation antihistamines – the more sedating types. That’s because they are often better at treating cold symptoms and drying up runny nose than the newer types.

Because of their sedating effect, cold medicines with antihistamines are labeled for nighttime use. Take this labeling seriously, as some include medications like doxylamine that are more sedating than others. Check labels for dosages as well, as these may vary, even within brands.

More is not better – read labels carefully and take only as recommended. Don’t supplement a multi-symptom cold medication with another single-ingredient antihistamine.

Be smart, be aware of allergy medication side effects

Smart use of allergy medications – knowing how they treat symptoms of an allergic reaction, being aware of potential unwanted side effects and, most important, monitoring their effect on you and your health – is just one step toward controlling allergy and cold symptoms. Even more important: knowing what you are allergic to and taking steps to prevent or reduce exposure.

If your allergy symptoms tend to last longer than two weeks or are not adequately controlled with over-the-counter medications, schedule an appointment with a board-certified allergist for a full diagnosis.

Antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids are intended for symptom relief. If antihistamines or intranasal corticosteroids are causing side effects such as drowsiness or other problems, there are other treatment options your doctor can offer for relief from allergic reactions. These options include allergen immunotherapy and non-drowsy allergy medicines like second-generation antihistamines or nasal sprays.

Reviewed by:
Dennis Williams, PharmD, is an Associate Professor at the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy. He practices at UNC Medical Center with the pulmonary medicine medical service. He has served as a member of the National Asthma Education Program Coordinating Committee and the National Asthma Educator Certification Board. He serves on Allergy & Asthma Network’s Board of Directors.

Antihistamine Medications | Why do Antihistamines Make You Sleepy

Drowsiness is one of the main side effects of some antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, which can be found in Benedryl and doxylamine succinate, which is found in Nyquil. And because of their powerful sedating abilities, antihistamines are also the main ingredients that are found in many over-the-counter sleep aids. But why do antihistamine medications make us sleepy? The answer to this question starts with histamines.

What are Histamines?

Histamines are chemical compounds that play a couple of roles in the body. They are best known for being involved in the body’s local immune responses. Histamine is a natural chemical in the body that performs numerous functions such as playing a part in the allergy response.

Allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly thinks a harmless foreign substance, such as pollen or pet dander, is actually dangerous. Histamines will jump to action, which will cause the range of symptoms associated with allergies such as sneezing, itchy eyes, chest congestion, wheezing, and more.

When you get injured or your immune system detects a potentially dangerous foreign substance, certain white blood cells and tissue cells release histamines that pursue and attach to other cells that have a histamine receptor. The histamines induce an inflammatory response, where they will dilate the blood vessels that will increase the blood flow to the site of injury or invasion. There are some side effects that come along with this healing process. An example is when you’re fighting off a cold, histamines will widen the blood vessels in your nasal cavity which will cause nasal congestion.

What are Antihistamines?

Antihistamines are usually used to ease allergy symptoms. They work by blocking histamines attachment to receptors, which prevent the compounds from carrying out their functions. They can cross the blood-brain barrier and inhibit one of the other functions of histamines, which is the role they play in regulating sleep and wakefulness. This disruption of the action of histamines in the brain results in drowsiness.

Older Antihistamines

Because first-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or hydroxyzine (Atarax), block the action of histamine at this receptor, they block histamine’s effect on wakefulness. When the histamine is blocked from triggering the receptor and participating in the sleep-wake cycle, the brain sees this as the “sleep mode” of the receptor, and you will feel drowsy. These older antihistamines don’t discriminate between which histamine receptors they block.

Older antihistamines have a sedating effect because the medication penetrates the blood-brain barrier, which means that the medication not only works in treating an allergy but also affects the brain. This results in a feeling of lethargy. In fact, some older antihistamines are prescribed specifically because they help with sleep and relaxation. However, this can be an unwanted and serious side effect for someone who needs to drive or operate heavy machinery.

Newer Antihistamines

Newer antihistamine medications, such as loratadine (Claritin) or desloratadine (Aerius), have different chemical structures that don’t allow them to readily enter the brain. Even though they have action at the h2 receptor, they can’t access the receptors that are present in the brain, which means they do not cause drowsiness. This is also the reason why newer and different antihistamines have less drowsiness effects associated with them. Newer, once-a-day antihistamine medications have no effect on the brain and just function in decreasing allergy symptoms. They block the histamines which cause inflammation, mucous, itching and hives. However, they can still cause drowsiness in a small percent of people who take them. If this is the case for you, you should talk to your doctor about other approaches you may be able to take.

Treatment with Dr. Shukla

Dr. Shukla of Brooklyn New York has been in practice for more than 15 years. He has provided the answers and treatments to many children suffering from asthma, allergies, sleep apnea. Here at the Asthma, Allergy and Sleep Center of New York, we provide you with a personalized, boutique approach to health care and pediatric pulmonology all under one roof. We emphasize prevention and use our advanced diagnostic technologies to give you and your child the best possible care. Whether you need to see a sleep doctor, need allergy treatment or need a pulmonologist, contact Dr. Shukla’s New York offices today for an appointment.

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.

What allergy remedies are available? – article on the website Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Allergy is a condition caused by an overreaction of the immune system to substances that are normally pathogens. Accompanied by a high reaction to substances that do not have a harmful effect on the body. The reasons have not yet been identified by scientists, so until now it has not been possible to develop drugs to cure unpleasant reactions, such as sneezing, tearing, itching, etc. But in pharmacies there are allergy medications that relieve symptoms and help relieve exacerbation. Means of the first, second and third generation can be purchased at our online pharmacy, but it is worth studying the features and indications.

Symptoms

Allergies in mild forms go unnoticed and do not require medical treatment. But unpleasant conditions can become brighter and stronger depending on the type of allergen.

The following signs are observed:

• Sneezing, it may get worse;

• Manifestations of cough, it may be accompanied by frequent and problematic breathing;

• Lack of air;

• There may be itching in the nasal region, a severe runny nose;

• Increased tearing;

• Skin itching;

• The appearance of red spots on the skin (urticaria).

First generation drugs

Means of an antihistamine type, which belong to the first generation, when taken, enter the region of the nervous system. They quickly eliminate unpleasant symptoms. But the effect does not last long, and with prolonged use, addiction is observed. When they are used, a feeling of drowsiness, weakness, headaches, dizziness, and slow reactions may occur.

Below you can consider the most effective and inexpensive allergy remedies:

• Diazolin. Does not cause severe drowsiness. It is recommended to use for prevention. Will not be able to help during severe exacerbations, severe manifestations;

• Suprastin. When used, severe drowsiness does not occur, quick help to the body with allergies. The drug is approved for use in adults and children from 3 years.

Second generation drugs

Antihistamine drugs of the second generation have a large spectrum of action. If you follow the rules when taking, there are practically no side effects. Funds are valid 24 hours. With prolonged use, there is no addiction.

Antiallergic drugs of the second group:

• Fenistil. Allergy medicine, which is available in the form of a gel, drops. Options in the form of a gel are intended for application to the surface of the skin, if there are rashes, irritations. They have a cooling, analgesic effect. Drops are more convenient to use, unlike the gel, it is convenient to take with you, they are not addictive;

• Claritin. Has a wide application. When used, there is no feeling of drowsiness, concentration of attention does not decrease. Suitable for adults, it can be used by children from 3 years old. The allergy remedy can be used for a long time;

• Tsetrin. The allergy remedy is highly effective, the tablets relieve unpleasant symptoms, relieve exacerbation. There is a form of syrup, it is suitable for children from 2 years. The action persists throughout the day. Helps relieve swelling. The syrup can be included in complex therapy, relieves spasms during bronchial asthma. The drug has no contraindications;

• Xizal (Zodak). The drug is available in several forms – in the form of tablets and syrup. It has an anti-inflammatory effect. Relieves swelling, itching, redness. The action is noted for two days. Do not use in renal failure, the drug is contraindicated in children under 6 years of age;

Third generation drugs

You can buy medicines for allergic reactions of the third generation from us. The group often includes improved second-generation drugs. They act quickly and are effective. They have few side effects, sometimes intolerance may occur.

Effective medicines include:

• Erius. The medicine is sold in the form of tablets and syrup. It has a long lasting effect. The action can last for days. When used, the manifestations of allergies are quickly eliminated;

• Fexofast When used, the manifestations of reactions are quickly eliminated. The action is observed within 12 hours. Suitable for prevention. The medicine is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.