Allergy symptoms can often be relieved through the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications and nasal sprays. Medical therapy provides short-term relief and may be a solution for seasonal allergies or those whose symptoms are not severe.
If your symptoms do not improve with the use of medications, consult with an allergist about longer-term treatment options such as immunotherapy (allergy shots) or, for select pediatric patients with food allergies, oral immunotherapy (OIT). Learn more about Allergy Treatments →
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are often the first choice for treating allergy symptoms. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical produced by the immune system responsible for symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose and itchy, watery eyes. They are available in tablets, capsules, liquids and nasal sprays.
Oral Antihistamines
Oral antihistamines are available over the counter in several formulas. Newer generation options tend to cause less drowsiness. Common options recommended by our team include:
- Allegra (fexofenadine) — available in 30mg, 60mg and 180mg
- Claritin (loratadine) — available in tablet and liquid form
- Xyzal (levocetirizine) — available in tablet and liquid form
- Zyrtec (cetirizine) — available in tablet and liquid form
Antihistamine Nasal Spray
Antihistamine nasal sprays work directly in the nasal passages and can be effective for congestion and runny nose. They are available over the counter.
- Astepro (azelastine HCl 0.15%)
Nasal Corticosteroid Sprays
Nasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation of the nasal lining and are among the most effective medications for allergy symptoms including congestion, runny nose and sneezing. They are generally safe for long-term use. Several are now available over the counter, while others require a prescription. Common options include:
- Flonase (fluticasone propionate 50 mcg) — OTC
- Flonase Sensimist (fluticasone furoate 27.5 mcg) — OTC, scent-free gentle mist formula
- Nasacort AQ (triamcinolone acetonide 55 mcg) — OTC
- Nasonex (mometasone furoate 50 mcg) — prescription
- Rhinocort Aqua (budesonide 32 mcg) — prescription
Your allergist will recommend the appropriate spray and dosing at your visit.
Decongestants
When allergy symptoms include a stuffed-up nose, a decongestant can provide additional relief. Decongestants shrink swollen blood vessels and tissues that line the nose and are available in pills, liquids and nasal sprays.
Decongestants may increase anxiety or cause sleeping difficulty. If you have glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disorder, diabetes or enlarged prostate, consult with a doctor before using. Many allergy medications combine antihistamines with decongestants, such as Allegra-D and Claritin-D.
Decongestant nasal sprays provide fast, short-term relief but should not be used for longer than three days, as overuse can lead to a “rebound effect” in which symptoms worsen.
Allergy Eye Drops
Allergy eye drops help relieve itchy, watery eyes, redness and swelling. Options include antihistamine drops, mast cell stabilizers and lubricating drops for dryness and irritation.
Antihistamine and Mast Cell Stabilizer Drops
- Pataday (olopatadine) — available OTC in 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.7% strengths
- Alaway (ketotifen 0.035%) — OTC
- Zaditor (ketotifen 0.035%) — OTC
- Lastacaft (alcaftadine 0.255%) — prescription
Lubricating Eye Drops
For patients who experience dryness or irritation alongside allergy symptoms, lubricating drops can provide additional comfort:
- Refresh eye lubricant
- Systane eye lubricant
Your allergist will specify the recommended drops and dosing at your visit.
Mast Cell Inhibitors
Mast cell inhibitors prevent allergy symptoms such as a runny nose or itchy, watery eyes by stopping the immune system from releasing histamines in response to allergens. They are available as nasal sprays and eye drops and work best when started one to two weeks before allergy season begins.
Epinephrine (EpiPen)
For patients with severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector is an important part of their emergency action plan. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, and should be used immediately if a severe reaction occurs. Your allergist will help determine whether you need a prescription and provide guidance on when and how to use it.
Call Midwest Allergy & Asthma at (651) 702-0750 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
For more on managing allergies in Minnesota, visit our blog:
How Climate Change is Affecting Seasonal Allergies in the Twin Cities →
Fall Allergies in Minnesota: How Ragweed and Mold Spores Affect Local Residents →