A Guide to Seasonal Allergy Medications

Spring allergies are here. Runny noses, sore throats, headaches, sinus pressure and that feeling that something is trying to push your eyes out from inside your head are all common symptoms.

Allergies can develop at any time in a person's life. Some allergies alleviate or lessen with the change of seasons -- these are commonly called "seasonal allergies." Even though the name sounds almost redundant, they are important to pay attention to.

If a person has "seasonal allergies" -- in other words, some hyper-sensitivity to a pollen or a group of pollens, doing some research into what pollens are prevalent in the area during each season may help the person to tailor their outdoor activities, allergy medications (if needed) and even their choice of landscaping.

If medications are indicated, how does a person choose between a prescription medication and one from over the counter (OTC)?

An allergy medication is basically an anti-histamine. The allergic reaction occurs when a person's body overreacts to a substance. The histamine receptors go into hyper-drive and releasing more than normal amounts of histamine, causing different things to happen. The sinuses swell causing the pressure and headaches and, mucus is created in large amounts in the attempt to "wash out" the offending substance, making the runny nose. This mucus and the pollens may make the throat sore, in addition to the large amount of mucus swallowed can irritate the stomach.

This article is not meant to be used as a diagnostic tool or as a prescription. No one medication discussed here is in any way advocated over another.

If a reader has questions about a specific medication or is wondering if they have an allergy, consultation with a licensed physician and pharmacist may be necessary. Let the pharmacist and the physician know if other medications are being taken or if other health conditions exist.

Here is a list and brief description of the most common OTC allergy medications and their common generic and brand names. Prices may vary widely from online sources and from store to store.

Loratadine- Sold as Loratadine, Claritin, Claritin-D

This antihistamine is one of the best selling allergy medicines on the market today. It is taken once every 24 hours, and does take a few days to become effective. It does not cause drowsiness, making it a huge plus for those who drive or operate machinery.

Diphenhydramine- Sold as Benadryl, Tylenol Flu and is in many nighttime products

As suggested by some of the product names, this medication works to alleviate allergies, however one of its main side effects is drowsiness. This is desirable when symptoms of allergies or illness make falling asleep difficult.

Pseudo-ephedrine- Sold as Sudafed, Actifed and Comtrex

This is extremely effective for allergy relief. Unfortunately, nefarious people have learned to make illicit substances with it, so it is available by request only at pharmacies to adults. Purchase amounts may also be limited and these products as well as those containing ephedrine are behind lock and key. This substance can cause insomnia, heart palpitations (skipped heart beats) and a sense of heightened nervousness. Urinary retention can also result.

Clemastine- Sold as Allerhist-1®, Anti-Hist® 1, Antihist®-1, Contac® 12 Hour Allergy, Dailyhist®-1, Dayhist-1®, Equate® Dayhist Allergy, Tavist®, Tavist® Allergy, Wal-Hist™ Allergy

Like the other medications, it relieves allergy symptoms. The side effects can be blurred vision, dry mouth, drowsiness and sensitivity to the sun. When using this OTC medication, use precautions when outside. Another side effect may be urinary retention.

Brompheniramine- Sold as Dimetapp

Sold widely for both adults and children, it has been around for over 50 years. None of the company's products contain acetaminophen, which has been linked to other health concerns in children. Proper dosing is essential in both adults and children. The side effects can include drowsiness, dry mouth and possible urinary retention.

Not everyone will experience negative side effects to a medication. Few people may or will experience all of the side effects listed for any OTC or prescription medication.

The first step to choosing the right medication is to research each medication, talk to a licensed pharmacist and/or a licensed physician. Take each medication only as directed on the package. A little may work now, but a lot could pose a health risk. If the product package says the medication should only be taken for so many days and then stop, take it for that many days only and then stop for the prescribed time.

All of these medications are available in stores both as brand names and under their generic names. They are also available online at different sources. Only purchase online from a trusted source.