Allergy Medication

While an allergy is often accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling and hives, allergy medication can help relieve these symptoms. As serious as allergies can become, and they can actually be deadly in some circumstances, the pharmaceutical industry is getting better at providing help. Allergy medications continue to improve, and today many therapies are available over the counter, while some stronger alternatives are only available with a prescription from a physician.

Allergy Medication Can Be Extremely Effective

Antihistamines are the most commonly-used medication for relieving annoying the symptoms caused by allergens. These can come in various forms based on convenience and personal preference. They’re designed to counter the effects of histamine from an allergic attack. Antihistamines are commonly available over the counter (consider Actifed, Benadryl, Contac, Drixoral, Tavist-D, Triaminic), but they’re also available by prescription.

Decongestants are often the perfect allergy medication for those with allergies. They are only effective when symptoms are present and can be taken with antihistamines. Some decongestants tend to have a stimulating effect and can raise blood pressure. Therefore, those with high blood pressure should take precautions when using decongestants. Always consult your physician first.

Corticosteroids are designed to reduce the inflammation caused by allergies. They’re primarily used to treat itching and swelling. Common forms include corticosteroid nasal sprays for allergic rhinitis and sinusitis (Flonase, Nasalide, Nasonex), and over-the-counter topical corticosteroid creams for hives, dermatitis, and insect sting reactions.

In the case of the most dangerous allergic reactions, Epinephrine (adrenalin) is often used as an emergency medication. Included in these situations are insect stings, food allergy reactions, or drug allergy reactions. The form of delivery is most often an EpiPen, which is a self-injectable shot of epinephrine.

Allergy medication with antihistamines and decongestants can be quite effective, however, these medications have the potential to interact with other medications taken for other medical problems. Always consult with your doctor before taking any over the counter antihistamine or decongestant medications. If you have other health problems, you should also talk to your doctor to be sure what allergy medications are safe for you.