Category: Allergy

Allergy medications are drugs used to alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. Here are some common types of allergy medications:

1. Antihistamines: These drugs block the action of histamine, a substance released by the immune system during allergic reactions. They can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Examples include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
2. Decongestants: These medications reduce nasal congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages. They are often used in combination with antihistamines to relieve congestion. Examples include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine.
3. Nasal corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and can help relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Examples include fluticasone (Flonase), triamcinolone (Nasacort), and mometasone (Nasonex).
4. Mast cell stabilizers: These drugs prevent the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells, which can help prevent allergic reactions. They are often used as nasal sprays to treat allergic rhinitis. Examples include cromolyn (Nasalcrom) and nedocromil (Tilade).
5. Antileukotrienes: These medications block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals in the body that can trigger allergic reactions. They are often used to treat asthma and allergic rhinitis. Examples include montelukast (Singulair) and zafirlukast (Accolate).
6. Immunotherapy: This treatment involves gradually exposing the body to increasing doses of allergens to desensitize the immune system and reduce allergic reactions over time. It is often used for people with severe allergies who do not respond well to other treatments.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any allergy medication, as they can help determine the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and medical history.