#Best over the counter allergy medicine windows#

Xyzal has the same active ingredient as Zyrtec, so save your money.Īllegra - Least sedating (vs. Zyrtec can be given to children as young as 6 months of age, with caution for drowsiness. Zyrtec - More likely to be cause drowsiness than Claritin, but quicker onset of action (1 hour.) Slightly more effective than Allegra. Antihistamines are best for mild, intermittent symptoms.

These meds work quickly they can be used on and off throughout the allergy season. This class of medication is great for itching and drippy noses, but not great for stuffy noses and congestion. If your baby has a runny nose this time of year, it’s likely a from a viral cold.Ĭommonly available OTC allergy medications: Oral Medications (antihistamines)Īntihistamines block histamine from attaching to itch-producing, snot-making cells. Infants (under 1 year) very rarely get seasonal allergies.

#Best over the counter allergy medicine windows#

Keeping windows closed on windy days, nasal saline rinses, and removing shoes/changing clothes soon after arriving home can all help decrease allergen exposure. Of the OTC meds, most allergists recommend nasal sprays as first-line therapy due to their effectiveness and minimal side effects.ĭon't forget other ways to decrease environmental allergens and help symptoms. Be sure to choose a medication for your child’s symptoms (see advice below) since not all OTC meds work the same. In fact, most kids can be treated entirely by OTC meds when the correct medication and dosing is provided. There are very effective treatments for seasonal allergies available without a prescription. Pollen levels are highest in the morning hours on windy days, and counts drop after a good rain. Even without trees in your yard, allergy symptoms can be present. Remember that pollen can travel many miles in the air. The spring season is dominated by tree pollens and flowering plants, followed by grass and weed pollen later in the summer.

Seasonal allergies are usually the worst in the spring.