What Are the Best Allergy Medicines for Kids?

Allergies can often disrupt a child’s daily routine, affecting everything from playtime to school performance. When allergies arise, it means the child’s immune system is overreacting to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. These substances, known as allergens, can trigger symptoms that range from runny noses to severe breathing difficulties.

Types of Allergy Medications for Kids

The good news is that there’s a variety of allergy medications to manage these symptoms, giving children much-needed relief. These medications come in various forms, such as:

• Liquids
• Tablets
• Chewable tablets
• Nasal sprays
• Allergy eye drops

The choice of medication depends on the nature and severity of the allergic reaction and should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the main types so you can have an easier time choosing the best allergy medicine for your kid.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are usually the first line of defense against allergies. When an allergic reaction occurs, the body releases histamine, which causes allergy symptoms. Antihistamines work by temporarily blocking this chemical. They can manage symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. They come in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, liquids, and nasal sprays.

Decongestants

Decongestants are often used to relieve a stuffy nose caused by an allergic reaction. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and helps to alleviate congestion. Decongestants are available in several forms, including oral tablets and nasal sprays. However, these should not be used for more than a few days at a time, as prolonged use can worsen congestion and cause a condition called rebound congestion.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids help to control inflammation caused by an allergic reaction. They come in various forms, such as nasal sprays for allergic rhinitis, inhalers for asthma, creams for skin allergies, and eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis. Corticosteroids are effective for managing chronic or severe allergies. Still, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider due to their potential side effects with long-term use.

Cromolyn

Cromolyn is a type of medication used to prevent allergic reactions, especially in the case of seasonal allergies. It stabilizes the immune cells that release histamine and other chemicals causing the allergic reaction. Cromolyn is available in the form of a nasal spray and eye drops. This medication is typically used before allergen exposure, making it a great choice for those who have a predictable allergy season.

When it comes to managing allergies, it’s crucial to remember that each child may respond differently to different medications. Always consult with your child’s healthcare provider to find the most effective and safe treatment option.

Over-the-Counter Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines are some of the best allergy medicines for kids. They help ease seasonal allergy symptoms, making them a great option for children dealing with allergies. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the best oral medications tailored for children’s allergies.

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

Benadryl is an antihistamine suitable for children over 6 years. It’s one of the best over-the-counter (OTC) meds for kids’ allergies. Note that you should not use it for kids under 2 and only use it for kids between 2 to 5 years if your doctor prescribes it.

Children’s Benadryl Allergy Liquid (Under 12)

• Children under 2 years: Consult your doctor.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Give 5 mL every 4-6 hours. Do not take more than 20 mL in 24 hours.
• Children ages 6 to 11: Give 10-20 mL every 4-6 hours as directed by a doctor. Do not take more than 80 mL in 24 hours.

Children’s Benadryl Chewable Tablets

• Children under 2 years: Do not use.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Only use if directed by a doctor.
• Children ages 6 to 11: Give 1-2 chewable tablets (12.5 mg to 25 mg) every 4-6 hours or as directed by a doctor. Do not take it more than 6 times in 24 hours.
• Children 12 years and over: Give 2-4 chewable tablets (25 mg to 50 mg) every 4-6 hours or as directed by a doctor. Do not take it more than 6 times in 24 hours.

Side effects can include:

• Drowsiness
• Hyperactivity
• Agitation
• Dry mouth

Claritin (Loratadine)

Claritin is an OTC allergy medicine for kids. It’s among the best short-term allergy medicines available and is suitable for children aged 2 years and above.

Children’s Claritin Syrup 24-Hour

• Children under 2 years: Consult a doctor.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Give 5 mL once daily. Do not take more than 5 mL in 24 hours.
• Children 6 years and over: Give 10 mL once daily. Do not take more than 10 mL in 24 hours.

Children’s Claritin Chewables 24-Hour

• Children under 2 years: Consult a doctor.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Give one 5 mg tablet daily. Do not take more than 1 tablet in 24 hours.
• Children 6 years and over: Give two 5 mg tablets daily. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.

Side effects can include:

• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Nervousness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Stomach pain

Zyrtec (Cetirizine)

Zyrtec is an OTC allergy medicine for kids. It’s a popular antihistamine allergy medicine, designed to relieve allergy symptoms.

Children’s Zyrtec Allergy Syrup

• Children under 2 years: Consult a doctor.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Give 2.5 mL once daily. Increase the dose to a maximum of 5 mL once daily or 2.5 mL every 12 hours if needed. Do not take more than 5 mL in 24 hours.
• Children 6 years and over: Give 5 mL or 10 mL once daily. Do not take more than 10 mL in 24 hours.

Children’s Zyrtec Dissolve Tabs

• Children under 6 years: Consult a doctor.
• Children 6 years and over: Give one 10 mg tablet once daily. Do not take more than 10 mg in 24 hours.

Side effects may include:

• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness

Allegra (Fexofenadine)

Allegra is an allergy medicine available OTC to help treat allergies.

Children’s Allegra Allergy 12-Hour Dissolve Tabs

• Children under 6 years: Do not use.
• Children ages 6 to 11: Give one 30 mg tablet every 12 hours on an empty stomach. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
• Children 12 years and older: Give two 30 mg tablets every 12 hours on an empty stomach. Do not take more than 4 tablets in 24 hours.

Children’s Allegra Allergy 12-Hour Liquid

• Children under 2 years: Ask a doctor.
• Children ages 2 to 11: Give 5 mL every 12 hours. Do not take more than 10 mL in 24 hours.
• Children 12 years and older: Give 10 mL every 12 hours. Do not take more than 20 mL in 24 hours.

Side effects may include:

• Headaches
• Feeling sleepy
• Dry mouth
• Feeling sick
• Dizziness

Nasal Sprays

Nasal sprays work directly in the nasal passages, the area often most impacted by allergies. OTC nasal sprays often fall into two main categories: nasal steroids and antihistamine nasal sprays.

Nasal steroids, like Flonase (fluticasone) or Nasacort (triamcinolone), work by reducing inflammation in the nose. This helps relieve stuffiness, making it easier for your child to breathe. They can also minimize sneezing, itching, and a runny nose over consistent use.

On the other hand, antihistamine nasal sprays such as Astepro (azelastine) tackle allergies differently. They block histamine, a culprit behind allergic reactions. This action can bring swift symptom relief, easing your child’s discomfort.

Children’s Flonase Allergy Relief Nasal Spray

• Children under 4 years: Do not use.
• Children ages 4 to 11: Use 1 spray in each nostril once daily. Consult a doctor if your child should use the spray for longer than two months a year.
• Children 12 years and older: Use 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril daily. Consult a doctor to see if your child should stop using the spray after six months of daily use.

Children’s Nasacort Allergy 24-Hour Spray

• Children under 2 years: Do not use.
• Children ages 2 to 5: Use 1 spray in each nostril once daily.
• Children ages 6 to 11: Use 2 sprays in each nostril once daily. Once symptoms improve, reduce to 1 spray in each nostril daily. Consult a doctor if your child should use the spray for longer than two months a year.
• Children 12 years and older: Use 2 sprays in each nostril once daily. Once symptoms improve, reduce to 1 spray in each nostril daily.

Astepro (Azelastine)

• Children under 6 years: Do not use.
• Children ages 6 to 11: Use 1 spray in each nostril every 12 hours. Do not use more than 2 sprays in each nostril in 24 hours.
• Children 12 years and older: Use 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril every 12 hours or use 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. Do not use more than 4 sprays in each nostril in 24 hours.

When using these sprays, it's essential to aim the nozzle toward the back of the nose. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your child's pediatrician if symptoms continue.

Alternative Treatments

While OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays are commonly used to treat allergies, some alternatives may be more suitable for certain children. Here are some of the best allergy treatment alternatives.

Mast Cell Stabilizers

Mast cell stabilizers are a type of eye drop or nasal spray. They work by preventing the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. One benefit of these medications is that they can be used for long-term management of allergies. However, it’s important to note that they can take a few weeks to start working and may cause minor side effects like burning or stinging.

Neti Pots

If you would prefer to treat your child’s allergy symptoms with natural remedies, this is a good option. Neti pots are small, teapot-like devices that you can use to flush out your child’s nasal cavity. This method uses a saline solution to rinse out allergens and mucus. It’s a natural, drug-free option, but must be done correctly to avoid the risk of infection. Always use distilled or sterilized water, not tap water. 

Leukotriene Modifiers

Leukotriene modifiers are oral medications that block the actions of leukotrienes, chemicals in the body that trigger allergy symptoms. These medicines can help control symptoms for children with allergic rhinitis or asthma. Although generally safe and effective, side effects can include flu-like symptoms, nausea, or nasal congestion.

Decrease Allergen Exposure

Managing allergies can be as straightforward as reducing exposure to environmental allergens. You can do this by regularly cleaning your home, removing shoes at the door to avoid tracking in allergens, and washing bedding frequently. If you’re not already doing it, allergists recommend using air humidifiers and air purifiers indoors to beat indoor allergens. If you have pets, regular grooming can help reduce dander if your kid is allergic to cats or dogs. During peak pollen seasons, try and keep your windows closed to limit exposure.

Allergy Shots

Allergy shots are another treatment option for children with allergies. However, shots may not be ideal for children due to the frequent injections and time commitment involved. Children, especially young kids, may find it challenging to undergo the necessary series of injections over several months or even years. Frequent injections can be uncomfortable and difficult for children to manage. For this reason, you need to consult with an allergist to discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of this treatment option for your child’s allergies.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is an alternative treatment for allergies in children. SLIT involves placing allergen extracts under the tongue, allowing the immune system to gradually build a tolerance to specific allergens. SLIT is generally recommended for children older than five years of age. At this age, their immune systems are more developed and able to respond effectively to the treatment. Allergy immunotherapy is one of the best treatment options for kids as it eliminates the need for frequent injections and is easy to administer at home under parental supervision.

Take Our Allergy Assessment and Get Treatment Today

If you want long-term allergy treatment for your child, choose Wyndly. Our doctors will work to identify what they’re allergic to and create a personalized treatment plan for your child because they deserve better than a one-size-fits-all approach to their allergy care. Take our allergy assessment today to see if your child is a candidate.