Antihistamines
Antihistamines are medications that can provide relief from allergy symptoms almost immediately. Some examples of antihistamines that are available over-the-counter include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra). These medications block the action of histamine in the body, which is a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction. They usually start to work within 30 minutes and can last for up to 24 hours.
Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays are another type of medication that can provide fast relief from allergy symptoms. These sprays contain medications such as oxymetazoline (Afrin) and fluticasone (Flonase). Nasal sprays can start to work within minutes and can last for up to 12 hours.
Decongestants
Decongestants are medications that can help to reduce nasal congestion. Examples of decongestants include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). These medications can start to work within 15 minutes and can last for up to 12 hours.
Eye Drops
Eye drops are another type of medication that can help to reduce eye allergy symptoms. Examples of eye drops that are available over-the-counter include ketotifen (Zaditor) and naphazoline (Visine). These medications can start to work within minutes and can last for up to 12 hours.
