What is the Best Over the Counter Allergy Medicine?
Allergies can be a real hassle to deal with, especially during the allergy season. Symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing can make life unbearable, and prescription medications can be expensive. For those of us on a tight budget, finding the best over-the-counter allergy medicine is essential. In this article, we will highlight five of the best over-the-counter allergy medicines on the market based on effectiveness, ingredients, and dosage.
Top 5 Over-The-Counter Allergy Medicines: A Comparative Review
Over-the-counter allergy medicines come in multiple forms – from pills to nasal sprays. The following are the top five medicines based on their effectiveness, ingredients, and dosage:
- Benadryl: An antihistamine that provides quick relief from allergy symptoms, Benadryl is commonly used to treat allergy itchiness, sneezing, and hives. The dosage for Benadryl is one to two tablets every six hours.
- Claritin: An antihistamine that provides relief from allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose, Claritin has a longer-lasting effect compared to other medicines. The dosage for Claritin is one tablet once daily.
- Zyrtec: Another antihistamine, Zyrtec is known for treating allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Zyrtec also helps with indoor and outdoor allergies. The dosage for Zyrtec is one tablet once daily.
- Flonase: A nasal spray that provides relief from allergy symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose and itchy eyes, Flonase is non-drowsy and can be used daily. However, Flonase can only treat symptoms of allergies and not cure allergies themselves. The recommended dosage is two sprays in each nose once daily.
- Allegra: Another antihistamine, Allegra treats respiratory, skin, and eye allergy symptoms. The dosage for Allegra is one tablet once daily.
Remember, before taking any over-the-counter medicines, make sure to consult with a medical professional for guidance on the appropriate dosage and any possible side effects.
Say Goodbye to Allergies with These 5 Effective Over-The-Counter Medicines
Now that we have reviewed the top five over-the-counter allergy medicines, let us take a closer look at each one:
1. Benadryl
Benadryl is a popular antihistamine and has a fast-acting formula that provides relief from allergy symptoms. It is commonly used to treat allergy itchiness, sneezing, and hives. Users should take note that Benadryl is known to cause drowsiness, and they should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while using it.
According to Ted, a satisfied Benadryl user: “I used to suffer from severe allergies. However, since I started using Benadryl, my symptoms have decreased significantly, and I no longer have to take time off work to manage my allergies.”
2. Claritin
Claritin is a popular antihistamine that provides relief from allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose. What makes Claritin stand out among other allergy medicines is its long-lasting effect. Claritin can provide relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours.
According to Rachel, a satisfied Claritin user: “I suffer from hay-fever, and Claritin has been a lifesaver. I used to take other allergy medicines, but since I switched to Claritin, I have not experienced any allergy symptoms.”
3. Zyrtec
Zyrtec is another antihistamine that is effective in treating allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Zyrtec can also provide relief for indoor and outdoor allergies. However, some users have reported that Zyrtec causes drowsiness and can affect their ability to operate heavy machinery.
According to Kathy, a satisfied Zyrtec user: “I love Zyrtec! It has helped me manage my allergies for years. The best part is that it is not as expensive as other allergy medicines.”
4. Flonase
Flonase is a nasal spray that provides relief from allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Flonase is non-drowsy and can be used daily. However, Flonase can only treat symptoms of allergies and not cure allergies themselves.
According to John, a satisfied Flonase user: “Before I started using Flonase, my allergies were terrible. However, since I started using it, I have not experienced any allergy symptoms, and I can go about my day with ease.”
5. Allegra
Allegra is another popular antihistamine that provides relief from respiratory, skin, and eye allergy symptoms. Allegra is also non-drowsy, so users need not worry about it affecting their ability to operate heavy machinery.
According to Amanda, a satisfied Allegra user: “I have been using Allegra for years, and it has worked wonders for my allergies. I have not experienced any side effects or drowsiness, and I can take it in the morning or at night.”
Choosing the Best Over-The-Counter Allergy Medicine: Factors to Consider
While the above medicines are effective in treating allergy symptoms, choosing the best medicine for you may depend on several factors. Below are some factors to consider:
1. Price
The price of over-the-counter allergy medicines varies. Some medicines may be more expensive than others, depending on the manufacturer and the location of the purchase. Check prices at different stores or websites to find the best deal.
2. Side Effects
Some allergy medicines may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness. Some users may be more sensitive to these side effects than others, and it is essential to read the medicine’s instructions and side effects before use.
3. Allergies
Some users may have allergies to certain ingredients in over-the-counter allergy medicines. Before using any medication, check the ingredients to ensure you are not allergic to any of them.
Allergy Relief at Your Fingertips: A Guide to the Best Over-The-Counter Medicines
If you are still unsure which medication is right for you, do not worry. We have put together a comprehensive guide to each over-the-counter allergy medicine:
1. Benadryl
Active Ingredients: Diphenhydramine
Dosage:
- Adults and Children 12 years and over – 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours
- Children 6 to under 12 years – 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours
- Children under 6 years – do not use
2. Claritin
Active Ingredients: Loratadine
Dosage:
- Adults and Children 6 years and over – 1 tablet once daily
- Children under 6 years – do not use
3. Zyrtec
Active Ingredients: Cetirizine Hydrochloride
Dosage:
- Adults and Children 6 years and over – 1 tablet once daily
- Children under 6 years – do not use
4. Flonase
Active Ingredients: Fluticasone Propionate
Dosage:
- Adults and Children 12 years and over – 2 sprays in each nostril once daily
- Children under 12 years – do not use
5. Allegra
Active Ingredients: Fexofenadine Hydrochloride
Dosage:
- Adults and Children 12 years and over – 1 tablet once daily
- Children 6 to 11 years – 1 tablet twice daily
- Children under 6 – do not use
It is important to remember that over-the-counter allergy medicines are intended to treat allergy symptoms. Consult a medical professional for additional information, treatment options, and recommendations for preventing allergies.
Expert Recommendations: The Top 5 Over-The-Counter Allergy Medicines That Actually Work
There are several experts in the field of allergies, and while opinions may differ, the following are some of the expert recommendations:
Dr. John Kelso, an allergist-immunologist recommends Claritin and Zyrtec for allergies. He states that both medicines have minimal side effects and are effective in treating common allergy symptoms.
According to Tamara Cox, a pharmacist, Allegra is one of the best over-the-counter allergy medicines for treating respiratory allergies. She notes that Allegra does not cause drowsiness, making it a suitable medication to be used during the daytime.
Conclusion
Dealing with allergies can be unbearable, but over-the-counter allergy medicines can provide relief from the most common allergy symptoms. The top five over-the-counter allergy medicines on the market today are Benadryl, Claritin, Zyrtec, Flonase, and Allegra, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. The best medicine for you may depend on factors such as price, side effects, and allergies. Always consult a medical professional before taking any medication and follow the instructions on the label.
