OTC Allergy Medications: What Over The Counter Antihistamines Work The Best?

These drugs work by blocking a receptor for histamine, which stops the symptoms that histamine causes. Antihistamines are the most commonly used medications to treat allergic rhinitis.

1^st Generation Antihistamines

These medications have been around for awhile and generally cause drowsiness. Benadryl is one example of this type of medication. Many people take these at night as they not only help with the allergies but also can help a person get a decent night sleep.

2^nd Generation Antihistamines

These are the newer medications that are available today for fighting allergies. These medications do not cause drowsiness (generally) and some have recently become available without a prescription which is called OTC.

What Are My Options For OTC Antihistamines?

Claritin is now available without a prescription. This medication is available in several forms including:

• Claritin 12 Hour Redi-Tabs
• Claritin 24 Hour Redi-Tabs
• Claritin Eye which helps with itchy eyes
• Claritin Liqui-Gels which are the first non-drowsy OTC medication available in a liquid filled capsule which helps the speed of absorption into the body.

There are also Claritin products available for children as well. These include:

• Claritin Redi-Tabs for kids 12 Hour
• Claritin Grape Chewables
• Claritin Syrup
• Claritin Redi-Tabs for kids 24 Hour

Zyrtec is another OTC medication available for the relief from hay fever and allergy symptoms. It is available in a chewable form for kids as well as a liquid form and there are also many adult products to choose from including one that is called Zyrtec-D which also includes a decongestant.

Conclusion

When seeking relief from rhinitis it is important to know what options you have available without visiting your Dr. Medicine has come a long way and with so many OTC antihistamines available, talk with your pharmacist today to see what might work best for you.

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