Antihistamines

• Nonprescription antihistamines (diphenhydramine [Benadryl], clemastine [Tavist], tripelennamine [PBZ], hydroxyzine [Atarax]) are the most commonly used drugs. Loratadine (Claritin), a long-acting, nonsedating antihistamine is also now available without a prescription. 



• These antihistamines are inexpensive and readily available. The effects do not last long.



• They may make you too drowsy to drive a car or operate machinery safely. You may start using them at bedtime. Drowsiness often lessens with continued, regular dosage.



• Many hay fever sufferers choose to take longer acting prescription antihistamines, such as fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), and desloratadine (Clarinex). These drugs are more expensive, but they have to be taken only once or twice a day. The biggest advantage of these drugs is that they cause only mild sleepiness, if any at all.

Leukotriene inhibitors

• Montelukast (Singulair) is a leukotriene inhibitor approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of hay fever.



• It is available with a prescription and comes in tablet, chewable tablet, or granule forms. The granules may be sprinkled directly on the tongue or mixed with cold or room temperature soft food like applesauce or pudding.



• Leukotrienes are powerful chemical substances that promote the inflammatory response seen during exposure to allergens. By keeping these chemicals from producing swelling, leukotriene inhibitors reduce inflammation.



• Leukotriene inhibitors are particularly effective when used with an antihistamine.

Cromolyn sodium

• Available in aerosol (Nasalcrom) and in eyedrops (Crolom), cromolyn sodium makes your mucous membranes less sensitive to allergens.



• It gives better relief if you take it as a preventive measure, even when you do not have symptoms.

Decongestants

• Decongestants are available in oral versions (such as pseudoephedrine [Sudafed]), eyedrops, or sprays (such as phenylephrine [Sinex])



• Eyedrops are effective for relieving annoying eye itch.



• Nasal sprays are very useful, especially in relieving nasal congestion. However, they can cause a rebound effect and inflammation called rhinitis medicamentosa if overused.



• Oral decongestants can cause high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness.



• Use all decongestants according to package instructions—usually no more than 3 days.