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Short-acting antihistamines,
which are generally non-prescription, often relieve mild to moderate
symptoms but can cause drowsiness. In addition, these antihistamines
can affect learning in children (even in the absence of drowsiness).
An example is diphenhydramine. One formerly prescription medication,
loratadine (Claritin), is now available over the counter. It does
NOT tend to cause drowsiness.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays are very effective and safe for people
with symptoms not relieved by antihistamines alone. These prescription
medications include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and
triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ).
Cromolyn sodium is available as a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating
hay fever. Eye drop versions of cromolyn sodium and antihistamines
are available for itchy, bloodshot eyes.
Leukotriene inhibitors - montelukast (Singulair) is a prescription
medicine approved to help control asthma and to help relieve the symptoms
of seasonal allergies.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are occasionally recommended if the
allergen cannot be avoided and symptoms are hard to control. Regular
injections of the allergen are given, with each dose slightly larger
than the previous dose. Allergy shots keep your body from over-reacting
to the allergen. They do not work for everybody and require frequent
doctor's visits.
Severe reactions (anaphylaxis) require epinephrine, which can be life
saving when administered soon after exposure by patients themselves.
One of the most popular epinephrine shots are Epi-Pens. Epi-Pen must
be administered immediately when an a allergic reaction is severe
and can only be prescribed by your allergist or physician. |
| |
*Some
of this treatment information has been provided by Thomas A. Owens,
M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University
Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare
Network.
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