Allergies: is the cure worse than the problem?
For many people with allergies this happens. Antihistamines help itch, but they put you to sleep. Decongestants open the airways, but do not let you wake up. Eye drops soothe, but cost a fortune. Steroids work wonders, but cause an increase and swelling.
Is there a way to treat allergies without experiencing side effects?
For most people, the answer is yes, although it may take some time. Here are three drugs you can trust to provide significant relief with minimal side effects.
1. Clarinex , Clarinex is the latest addition to the class of non-sterile antihistamines. This group includes Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec and generics of the same. Claritin and Zyrtec were originally a prescription, but are now available behind the counter. Allegra and Clarinex are prescription only. Non-sedative antihistamines have been developed in response to the most common complaint about the use of an antihistamine, that is, drowsiness. Sedative antihistamines are still available (Benadryl, chlorpheniramine and others) and remain useful for overnight allergy symptoms. They are the soothing ingredients of timeless sleep.
Clarinex is the only non-self-regulating antihistamine that is not yet available in generic form, and exists before it costs more and costs more than $ 100 per month of medicine. Check online at Clarinex to reduce your personal expenses. You may want to try loratadine (generic Claritin) or another generic first, for less than $ 10 a month.
2 NasalCrom Another drug that was previously a prescription drug, a non-prescription NasalCrom nasal spray (cromoline sodium), makes your nose less sensitive to allergens (pollen, dandruff, dust, and other particles that you are allergic to). In this regard, it is similar to nasal steroids (such as Flonase, Nasacort, Nasonex), which currently work from 60 to 120 dollars per month. The cost of NasalCrom is less than $ 20.
Each of these inhaled medicines is designed to prevent, not treat, the symptoms of nasal itching, drainage and congestion. They all work best when taken on a regular basis. If you wait for symptoms to use, you may find them ineffective. If you only need medication on a random basis, you probably should use Clarinex or other antiseptic antihistamines.
3 Singulair When Singulair was first released, it was intended only for the treatment of asthma. However, asthma often has an allergic component, and the drug is especially useful for people with both asthma and allergies. A few years ago, he was instructed to use in patients with non-asthmatic allergies.
In general, Singulair does not cause drowsiness and does not have a caffeine-like effect characteristic of decongestants. Like inhaled steroids and NasalCrom, it’s better to prevent allergy symptoms than to treat them. Currently, it is available only with a prescription for about $ 130 per month. The manufacturer offers savings options on the Singulair website.
The above preparations may be used alone or in combination. They are not the only options available and least expensive, but all three are fairly reliable in providing relief to the symptoms without side effects.
Copyright 2010 Cynthia J. Kelker, MD
