7 Non-Drowsy Allergy Medicines To Try

Non-drowsy allergy medicine is a type of medication that relieves allergy symptoms without making you feel tired. Their chemical makeup is different from traditional antihistamines (a common class of allergy medication), which can cause drowsiness as a side effect.

“Non-drowsy, also known as second-generation antihistamines, are less soluble in lipids and consequently have reduced capability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier,” says William Harris, M.D., an allergist with Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange County, California. “Thus, they are less active in the brain, resulting in lower sedation.”

First-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), often cause drowsiness because they’re more likely to cross the blood-brain barrier. Second-generation antihistamines, such as Claritin (loratadine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine), are less likely to cause drowsiness because they don’t cross the blood-brain barrier as easily.

Non-drowsy allergy medicine works by blocking the effects of histamines. Histamines are chemicals that are released in your body when you’re exposed to allergens, such as pollen or pet dander. Blocking the effects of histamines can help relieve the symptoms of allergies.

“All antihistamines work the same,” explains Dr. Harris. “By blocking histamines, they all relieve the symptoms of allergies, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and congestion.”

When considering trying a non-drowsy allergy medicine, first, take a look at the active ingredients. Second, take note of any possible side effects. And lastly, be sure to read the labels carefully before purchasing.

There are a variety of non-drowsy allergy medications available. They come in several forms, including pills, liquids and nasal sprays. Some are available over-the-counter, while others are available by prescription only.

Non-drowsy allergy medications are available as:

• Pills: Oral pills are the most common type of allergy medication. They’re easy to take and can be taken with or without food.
• Liquid: Liquid forms of antihistamines are available for both adults and children. They’re usually taken with a measuring spoon or syringe.
• Nasal spray: Nasal sprays are used to relieve nasal congestion. They’re usually taken once or twice a day.
• Eye drops: Eye drops are used to relieve itchy, watery eyes. They’re usually used as needed to control symptoms.

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Allegra (fexofenadine)

Allegra (fexofenadine) is a fast-acting and non-drowsy antihistamine that works to relieve the symptoms of allergies. It’s available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription. For adults, Allegra is available in tablet and gelcap form. Its children’s version is available in liquid and dissolvable tablet form.

You shouldn’t take Allegra if you’ve had an allergic reaction to fexofenadine or any of the other ingredients in Allegra. Those with kidney disease or liver disease should talk to their health care provider before taking this medication.

View more details on Allegra’s Website.

Clarinex (desloratadine)

Clarinex (desloratadine) is a non-drowsy OTC antihistamine that comes in tablet form. It’s a once-daily medication for children and adults who suffer from seasonal allergies such as hay fever.

You shouldn’t take Clarinex if you’re allergic to desloratadine, loratadine or any of the other ingredients in Clarinex. Speak with your doctor before taking Clarinex if you have any medical conditions, especially kidney or liver disease.

Claritin (loratadine)

Another non-drowsy OTC option, Claritin (loratadine) is available in tablet, gelcap, dissolvable tablet, chewable and liquid form. With a variety of dosing options, such as 12-hour and 24-hour, it’s a good choice for both adults and children ages 12 and older who struggle with outdoor or indoor allergens.

You shouldn’t take Claritin if you’re allergic to loratadine or any of the other ingredients in Claritin. If you have kidney disease, liver disease or any other medical conditions, talk to your provider before taking Claritin.

Flonase (fluticasone)

For those with more severe allergies, Flonase (fluticasone) is a prescription-strength, non-drowsy nasal spray. It’s now available as an OTC option without the need for a prescription. Flonase works by blocking the release of histamines and can relieve allergy symptoms far beyond nasal congestion, including sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes. This 24-hour spray is a good choice for adults and children ages four and older.

You shouldn’t use Flonase if you’re allergic to fluticasone or any of the other ingredients in Flonase. If you have any medical conditions such as tuberculosis, liver disease or glaucoma, talk to your provider before using Flonase. You also shouldn’t use Flonase if you have an open sore in your nose.

Nasacort (triamcinolone)

Nasacort (triamcinolone) is another prescription-strength, non-drowsy nasal spray option that’s available without a prescription. It works by blocking the release of histamines in the body and can provide relief from nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose and sneezing. Nasacort is available as a 24-hour spray and is a good choice for both children and adults.

You shouldn’t use Nasacort if you’re allergic to triamcinolone or any of the other ingredients in Nasacort. Talk to your health care provider before using Nasacort if you have tuberculosis, increased pressure behind the eye (intraocular pressure), have glaucoma or have recently taken corticosteroids.

Xyzal (levocetirizine)

Another 24-hour option, Xyzal (levocetirizine) is an antihistamine that reduces sneezing, scratchy throat, runny nose, itching and watery eyes in adults and children ages six and up. Unlike the other options on our list, Xyzal is taken before bed and continues to provide long-lasting relief throughout the following day.

You shouldn’t take Xyzal if you’re allergic to levocetirizine or any of the other ingredients in Xyzal. Use caution if you have a history of kidney disease, as you may need to take a different amount. Your doctor will help determine the proper dose based on your medical history.

Zyrtec (cetirizine HCL)

Zyrtec (cetirizine HCL) is an antihistamine that comes in standard capsule, tablet, gelcap, liquid and dissolvable tablet form. It’s available for adults and children at least two years of age and may be taken once or twice daily for indoor and outdoor allergy relief. Age requirements and directions vary by form, so it’s important to read the label of each Zyrtec product carefully before choosing the best option. Children between the age of two and six years old should only take the Children’s Allergy Syrup.

As with any medication, don’t take Zyrtec if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to cetirizine, hydroxyzine or any other ingredient in the medication. Talk to your health care provider before taking this medication if you have liver, kidney disease or any other health problems.

Like all medications, there are some risks and side effects associated with non-drowsy allergy medicines. Common antihistamine side effects, according to Dr. Harris, include:

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Nervousness

When choosing a non-drowsy allergy medicine, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of each option. If you’re not sure which medication is right for you, talk to your health care provider.

Non-drowsy allergy medicine is safe for most people. However, they may not be right for everyone. If you have a history of seizures, kidney disease, liver disease or are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking any non-drowsy allergy medicine.

The severity of your allergies and the symptoms you’re experiencing will determine when you need to see a doctor, notes Dr. Harris. If your allergies are mild, over-the-counter medications may be all you need. However, if your allergies are moderate to severe, you may need prescription medication.

Dr. Harris recommends seeing a doctor for your allergy symptoms if:

• Your symptoms aren’t controlled with OTC allergy medications
• You experience significant side effects from OTC allergy medications
• You wish to identify potential allergen triggers in your work or home environment

Your allergy symptoms shouldn’t interfere with your quality of life. If they are, it may be time to see a doctor. There are medications and treatments available that can provide significant relief for your allergy symptoms.