The best over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicines generally fall into a few categories, mainly antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays. Here are some of the top recommended options based on expert reviews and common use:
Best OTC Allergy Medicines
1. Antihistamines (for runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, and itching):
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine): Effective for indoor and outdoor allergies, fast-acting, and lasts up to 24 hours. It can cause drowsiness in about 14% of users, so it’s often recommended to take it at night initially. Available in tablets, chewables, dissolvable tablets, and syrup forms. Also helps with hives
- Claritin (Loratadine): Non-drowsy, long-lasting, and effective for similar symptoms as Zyrtec. Available in tablets, chewables, dissolvable tablets, and syrup. It generally has the least side effects among antihistamines
- Allegra (Fexofenadine): Another non-drowsy antihistamine, often recommended as the best overall non-sedating option. Works quickly and lasts 24 hours
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine): Very effective but causes drowsiness, making it better suited for nighttime use
2. Combination Allergy Medicines (antihistamine + decongestant):
- Claritin-D and Alavert D-12 Hour: These combine loratadine with pseudoephedrine to relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure along with allergy symptoms. They are effective but may cause restlessness or increased blood pressure, so they are recommended for daytime use
3. Nasal Sprays and Eye Drops:
- Flonase (Fluticasone): A nasal steroid spray effective for nasal allergy symptoms.
- Astepro: Nasal antihistamine spray.
- Pataday: Eye drops for allergic eye symptoms
Summary Table
Medication| Active Ingredient(s)| Key Benefits| Side Effects| Suitable For
---|---|---|---|---
Zyrtec| Cetirizine| Fast-acting, 24-hour relief| Possible drowsiness (~14%)|
Adults and children 6+ years
Claritin| Loratadine| Non-drowsy, long-lasting| Least side effects| Adults and
children 2+ years
Allegra| Fexofenadine| Non-drowsy, fast, 24-hour relief| Mild
dizziness/nausea| Adults and children 12+ years
Benadryl| Diphenhydramine| Very effective, quick relief| Causes drowsiness|
Nighttime use, adults only
Claritin-D/Alavert-D| Loratadine + Pseudoephedrine| Relieves congestion +
allergies| Restlessness, increased BP| Adults and children 12+ years
Flonase| Fluticasone (nasal spray)| Nasal allergy relief| Minimal if used
properly| Adults and children 4+ years
Pataday| Olopatadine (eye drops)| Eye allergy relief| Minimal| Adults and
children 2+ years
Expert Recommendations
- For most people, Zyrtec is a top choice due to its potency and 24-hour relief, though watch for drowsiness.
- Claritin is preferred if you want minimal side effects and no drowsiness.
- Allegra is excellent for those needing a non-drowsy option that works quickly.
- For congestion with allergy symptoms, combination products like Claritin-D or Alavert D are effective.
- Benadryl is best for nighttime use due to sedation.
- Nasal sprays like Flonase and eye drops like Pataday are good adjuncts for specific symptoms
Always consider personal tolerance and consult a healthcare provider if you have other medical conditions or take other medications.
