Q: When Should Patients Start Taking Allergy Medication Before Or During Their Allergy Season
William Berger, MD: Patients are very often confused about when to take antihistamines or nasal corticosteroid sprays to treat their allergies. These medications used to be available only by prescription, but many are now available over the counter. And when a medication is available over the counter, patients may not have access to a physician to guide them on how to properly take it.
In most parts of the country, there are very distinct allergy seasons. In early spring, its tree pollen. In the late spring its grass pollen. And then in the fall, starting around the end of August, its ragweed pollen, although other weeds cause pollen problems as well.
When youre taking allergy medications, its important to understand they work best when taken preventively. You should start taking them anywhere from 2-4 weeks before your allergy season begins. This should get you to the point where you are protected against pollen allergies.
These medications are designed to treat the symptoms they are not going to cure your allergies. If you stop these medications, your allergy symptoms will come back.
If you find these medications are not effective at treating your allergy symptoms completely, you might want to consider seeing an allergist who can test you to find out the root cause of the problem.
Have a medical question? Email or write to Ask the Allergist, Allergy & Asthma Network, 8229 Boone Blvd., Suite 260, Vienna, VA 22182.
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How Do You Know Which Medication Is Right For You
Figuring out the right allergy medication for you depends on your symptoms, your preferences, and a careful weighing of the side effects that drug might produce. So, if youre not sure whats right for youparticularly if youve tried a few over-the-counter options without successits worth talking to an allergist about what might work. In addition to the OTC options, there are prescription allergy medications they can prescribe as well as eye drops and nasal sprays that may be better for your particular set of symptoms.
When choosing an antihistamineor trying to figure out where a new symptom came frombe aware that the medication can come with side effects, including some that may be a little surprising. Here are some of the most common antihistamine side effects that you should know about.
Ibuprofen Can Interact With Medications
Youre more prone to negative effects if youre taking other medications that ibuprofen doesnt mix well with.
Ibuprofen can interact with the meds youre on, especially high blood pressure medications, which can lead to some serious adverse effects, Dr. Morgan says. That could be deadly.
Ibuprofen can interact negatively with:
- Heart medication, such as clopidogrel.
- Immunosuppressive medication, such as cyclosporine.
- Seizure medication, such as phenytoin.
Ibuprofen can impact certain conditions
You should also check with your doctor before taking ibuprofen if you have any of the following conditions:
- Gastrointestinal problems, including heartburn.
How much ibuprofen is safe?
How much ibuprofen you can take depends on, well, you. Theres not really a one-size-fits-all answer, Dr. Morgan says. It depends on your general state of health.
As a general rule, though, Dr. Morgan says most healthy people those who dont have high blood pressure or gastrointestinal issues can typically take ibuprofen on a limited basis to address minor aches and pains.
Its not without risk, but you can feel pretty safe taking it for about three days, she says. Take no more than 400 to 600 milligrams, three times a day, with food. Otherwise, it can ruin your stomach.
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Choosing The Proper Allergy Medication
Choosing the proper allergy medication can be a difficult task. After all, there are many options, and most claim to help relieve the same symptoms. Houston Methodist mentions two factors to consider when selecting antihistamines for allergy symptoms: non-sedating and long-acting forms. Allegra, Claritin, and Xyzal are examples of familiar brands. All belong to the antihistamine category, have long-acting forms, and are non-drowsy. These drugs also come in generic forms, are just as effective at treating allergy symptoms, and are less expensive.
Second-generation antihistamines are usually the best option, according to Network Health. However, while most medications do not cause drowsiness, Zyrtec has been associated with sleepiness in approximately 10% of those who take it. It’s also worth noting that if you choose Allegra, orange juice, grapefruit juice, and apple juice can reduce its effectiveness. Finally, first-generation drugs such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton can provide more immediate relief, but this comes with additional side effects . The elderly should take extra precautions, because the side effects can become more pronounced as we age.
Put The Humidifier Away
If youre allergic to dust mites, using a humidifier may make your allergy symptoms worse, especially if you use one in your bedroom. Humidity promotes the growth of dust mites, Dykewicz explains. The best thing for treating allergies from dust mites is dry air. So if you suspect a dust mite allergy, stop using your humidifier and see if your symptoms improve.
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Taking Antihistamines With Other Medicines Food Or Alcohol
Speak to a pharmacist or GP before taking antihistamines if you’re already taking other medicines.
There may be a risk the medicines do not mix, which could stop either from working properly or increase the risk of side effects.
Examples of medicines that could cause problems if taken with antihistamines include some types of:
- stomach ulcer or indigestion medicines
- cough and cold remedies that also contain an antihistamine
Try not to drink alcohol while taking an antihistamine, particularly if it’s a type that makes you drowsy, as it can increase the chances of it making you feel sleepy.
Food and other drinks do not affect most antihistamines, but check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to make sure.
Should You Consider Immunotherapy
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, immunotherapy is a treatment option that reduces your body’s sensitivity to allergens and can provide long-term relief of symptoms. Allergy shots are recommended for people with severe allergy symptoms, allergic asthma, or year-round allergies. In addition, they can be helpful when allergens are difficult to avoid .
If allergy shots are being considered, consult with an allergist about the time commitment required for treatment. According to Healthline, after your doctor determines your specific allergens , a customized formula will be created for you. You will be monitored for several minutes following the injections to ensure you do not have a severe reaction.
Your provider will start you on a buildup phase, in which low doses of the allergen are administered just under the skin and gradually increased with each visit. You will likely be asked to come once or twice weekly for approximately six months. Once this phase is completed, you will enter a maintenance stage that requires less time and only 1-2 visits per month. This phase can last several years, depending on the severity of symptoms and your response to treatment.
The time commitment required for immunotherapy can be a disadvantage. Per WebMD, this therapy is encouraging because it addresses the underlying cause of the problem and the body’s immune response, rather than just treating symptoms.
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Antihistamine Side Effects You Should Know
Like most allergy sufferers, I rely on medication to manage my symptoms. But antihistamine side effectssome of which may be unexpectedcan make taking these drugs a complex experience. Of course, all drugs come with the risk for some side effects, and even with those side effects, the benefits of taking a medication may still be worth it. But it’s always better not to be surprised by them.
Im something of an antihistamine connoisseur, you might say. In my decades-long quest to stop sneezing at seemingly every green thing outside, Ive taken pretty much every over-the-counter antihistamine out there, as well as a few prescription ones. And during that journey, Ive learned that some medications make me extremely sleepy while others dry my mouth out so much I spend the day chugging La Croix. Sometimes its just the price you have to pay for a day without eyes swollen shut!
In one particularly memorable episode, a friends adorable and very friendly Australian shepherd licked my neck while at a picnic in the park. I broke out in hives, popped a Benadryl, and spent the second half of the afternoon sound asleep in the grass while my friends carried on their party around me.
All of this is to say that, as much as I love and depend on the effects of antihistamines, you have to know what youre getting into when you take themespecially with regards to their potential side effects.
When You Take Allergy Medicine Every Day This Is What Happens
Spring is a great time of year. The weather gets warmer, the days get longer, but if you’re prone to allergies, the increased dust, pollen, and everything in between can make the season unbearable.
Antihistamines, or allergy medicines, are used to control how much histamine, a chemical made by the immune system in response to allergens, the body produces. But like a lot of medications, allergy pills come with side effects, which can include drowsiness, dry mouth, weight gain, an increased heart rate, headaches, a sore throat, and nausea.
There can also be rare side effects when a person abruptly stops taking allergy pills after regular use. According to Sandra Lin, MD, a professor and the vice director of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at John Hopkins School of Medicine, halting pill usage can result in itchy skin and disrupted sleep .
But what happens when someone takes medicine for allergies every single day for an extended period of time? Is that okay? Is it harmful? After all, 50 million Americans must put up with an array of allergens each year .
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What Happens If I Stop Taking Antihistamines Daily
Side effects are rare if you abruptly discontinue antihistamines after regular use. There are typically no rebound symptomsit is important to keep in mind that if the antihistamine is working well and is withdrawn, there will be a recurrence of the symptoms the antihistamine was treating, Dr. Tilles says.
If you do experience side effects after ending a daily antihistamine, they are usually mild. Some people who use antihistamines regularly and then stop suddenly may have side effects of itchy skin and disrupted sleep, Dr. Lin says.
What Happens If I Miss One Dose Of Antihistamine
If you miss a dose of your antihistamine, histamine release in your body will eventually resume and result in allergy symptoms. Take your missed dose as soon as possible, or wait for your next dose to maintain your established schedule. Do not exceed the daily limit or double your dose to compensate for a missed dose.
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Nasal Sprays Don’t Usually Have Drug Interactions
Think again. There is the possibility of some significant interactions between Flonase Allergy and other common medications. Some drug interactions might raise the levels of fluticasone in your body and lead to side effects.
Some interactions can occur when fluticasone is given with medicines that inhibit an enzyme in the body known CYP450 3A4. This may increase the amount of fluticasone in your body following intranasal administration.
You should talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the possibility of drug interactions before using any drugs with Flonase Allergy, including:
- Certain HIV medications, including ritonavir, boceprevir, and atazanavir
It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you use, including prescription, over-the-counter, dietary supplements, vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.
Can I Take Reactine Every Day
During allergy season, you can rely on Reactine® by taking it once daily, any time of day for symptom relief. However, you should not depend solely on Reactine® or continue to take it daily outside of allergy season, unless directed by your doctor. Reactine® should be taken according to its label and should not be used for anaphylactic allergic reactions or as a replacement for epinephrine6.
If youre looking to find a Reactine® product for your regular allergy use, you can choose from a wide variety, like Reactine Rapid Dissolve, Reactine Complete Sinus + Allergy, or Reactine Extra Strength. These OTC products are also conveniently available in various formats like liquid gels, tablets or liquids, so you can be sure to take Reactine® with you wherever youre headed.
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Xerostomia Is A Common Side Effect
Xerostomia may sound severe, but it is just a formal name for dry mouth. This is a common side effect of many medications, including allergy medications .
Allergy medications can affect the sympathetic nervous system, causing thickening and slowing saliva production. Because oral decongestants are intended to reduce mucus production in the nasal passages, dry mouth can occur, per SingleCare. If your dry mouth is caused by oral allergy medication, it will disappear once you stop taking it. However, if you are experiencing dry mouth and require long-term treatment, you must consult with your healthcare provider. Chronic dry mouth can hurt oral health, causing cavities, bad breath, and gum disease .
According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, drinking small amounts of water or fluids throughout the day and including water-containing foods in your diet can help moisten your mouth. Avoiding sugary foods and substitute sugar-free hard candy, mints, and lozenges can help with symptom management.
Zyrtec Side Effects To Be Aware Of
If youâve ever slept 14 hours after popping a Benadryl, youâre well aware that some allergy meds can seriously knock you out. Thatâs not as common with Zyrtec, but 11 to 14 percent of people do report feeling sleepy after taking it, making it the most common side effect reported, says Boomershine.
Since the effects of Zyrtec last 24 hours, drowsiness can hit at any time. Avoid alcohol and be careful about driving if the med hits you with the sleepies, per the Zyrtec site.
Its annoying to feel as if youve inhaled a mouthful of sand. Less than 10 percent of Zyrtec poppers will wind up with a dry mouth, says Boomershine. When you have an allergic response, your tissues secrete more fluid , and antihistamines dry you up. She says that drinking water will help, as will switching to an alcohol-free mouthwash if youre using one that has alcohol in it, as that ingredient also dries you out.
Dizziness can be a rare potential side effect and may disappear after your body adjusts to the medication, per The Mayo Clinic. Give it time, but always check in with your doctor if youre concerned. And, just like drowsiness, hold off on driving if youre getting dizzy spells.
While Zyrtec may make adults sleepy, it can turn kids into little insomniacs, says Boomershine. Having them take the long-acting med earlier in the day wont help either since it lasts all day. Talk to their pediatrician about making a switch.
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Add A Nasal Steroid Spray
Antihistamines can relieve the mild congestion that comes along with most bouts of allergies, but some people may experience more severe congestion. If this sounds like you, Dr. Hays recommends using a nasal steroid spray in addition to taking an antihistamine.
Until recently, nasal steroid sprays were offered only by prescription. Now, there are a few you can buy over-the-counter, including:
“Nasal steroid sprays won’t help with all of your allergy symptoms, such as itchy and watery eyes, but they do help with nasal congestion, post-nasal drip and scratchy throat,” Dr. Hays explains.
Just like antihistamines, Dr. Hays says that nasal steroid sprays need to be used every day to be effective. The good news is that they’re also generally safe and well-tolerated.
“However, unlike antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays don’t provide quick relief from allergy symptoms,” Dr. Hays says. “It can take a few days for a nasal steroid spray to take effect.”
Is It Safer To Skip Allergy Medication Altogether When I’m Pregnant
If your symptoms aren’t bad, your doctor may suggest other treatments instead. You could allergy-proof your home or rely on saline nasal sprays.
But if allergy symptoms are a big problem — making it hard to sleep, for instance — taking medication may be better for your health and your baby’s.
If you have allergic asthma, you need to take the medication as prescribed. Uncontrolled asthma can cause serious problems during pregnancy.
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Do I Bother Taking An Antihistamine Again If It Stopped Working For Me In The Past
Factors like age, stress, new allergy triggers, and environmental changes can affect how antihistamines work in your body. An antihistamine also may not be as effective if you dont take it consistently throughout an allergy season or episode. Some people develop a subsensitivity to a particular antihistamine after a long period of usage, which reduces the efficacy of that particular product. Changing to a different antihistamine will often restore efficacy. Taking a break from an antihistamine and trying it again at a later time may also restore the previous response. With Curist, you can try medications risk-free for 30 days and return anything that may not work out for you for a full refund!
Who May Not Be Able To Take Cetirizine
Cetirizine is not suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to cetirizine or any other medicine
- have an allergy to food additives
- have an allergy to peanuts or soya some brands of cetirizine capsules contain soya
- have kidney failure
- have epilepsy or another health problem that puts you at risk of having seizures or fits
- have a condition that means you have difficulty peeing
- are due to have an allergy test taking cetirizine may affect the results, so you might need to stop taking it a few days before the test
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