Overview
Allergies affect more than 40 million people in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergies, Asthma and Immunology. Spring time is the time of year when most people experience severe allergies, due to the high levels of pollen in the air. With so many allergy relief medications available over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, it can be difficult to decide which is the best for you. Having a basic knowledge of the different allergy medications available can help you make an informed decision. Talk to your doctor before using any mediation.
Antihistamine Types
The most common allergy medications are a class of drug called antihistamines. According to the Family Doctor website, antihistamines are categorized into two classifications–first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines are older drugs and tend to be more powerful in effect, causing significant drowsiness. The most common first-generation antihistamines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton). Second-generation antihistamines are commonly available OTC in a 24-hour dose. These are more recent antihistamines and do not typically cause drowsiness. The most common second-generation antihistamines are cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin).
Other Types
The two most common other medications used for allergic reactions (typically, food allergies or insect bites) are bronchodilators and epinephrine. Bronchodilators are commonly used to treat asthma attacks from an allergic reaction. Most bronchodilators are prescribed by a doctor and are in the form of an inhaler, used when needed to relax the lungs. Epinephrine is used for severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, where the body begins to shut down. Epinephrine is intended to provide relief for a short time. If someone is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction, you should call “911” immediately or contact medical personnel.
Function
The function of most allergy medications is to prohibit the body from releasing histamine and antibodies in the body that cause allergic reactions, according to the Family Health website. An allergic reaction transpires when a person’s body does not recognize a foreign substance, such as pollen. To protect itself, the body releases a high level of histamine, causing a runny nose, watery eyes, hives, shortness of breath and other reactions. Allergy medication controls the histamine levels in the body, therefore relieving the reactions.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of first-generation antihistamines are drowsiness, head pain, gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth and stomach pain. Talk to your doctor if you experience one or more of these side effects from a drug. Second-generation antihistamines do not have as many side effects as first-generation. A person possibly could experience drowsiness, dry mouth or gastrointestinal issues. Bronchodilators may cause a person to feel nervous, shaky, overexcited, have an increased heart rate, upset stomach or insomnia, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Epinephrine may have serious side effects if not used correctly. If used as prescribed, common side effects may include fast heart rate, nausea, sweats, dizziness, pale skin and weakness.
Warning
Before self-diagnosing, consult your doctor. If you are currently using any other mediation, talk to your doctor before using an OTC drug. Allergy medications are generally considered safe, but it may not be right if you suffer from heart disease, blood disorders or thyroid disease.
About this Author
Emily DeSerio has been an approved writer with Demand Studios since November 2009. She began her higher level education at the University of South Florida (USF) with a B.A. in English and went on to complete a Master of Social Work degree at USF as well. DeSerio works in the mental health field as a clinical social worker.
