What Is the Best OTC Antihistamine for Your Allergies?

Updated
Updated

Who should not take antihistamines?

Those who have health problems such as kidney or liver disease, thyroid disease, breathing problems, heart disease, glaucoma, trouble urinating, and high blood pressure should consult a doctor before taking antihistamines. For most adults, you can expect little to no side effects from OTC antihistamines.

This article is a transcript.

What is the best over-the-counter antihistamine? I'm Dr. Manan Shah, I'm an ENT and allergist with Wyndly Health. The best antihistamine depends on what you need. So, the fastest-acting antihistamine is Cetirizine, otherwise known as Zyrtec. That's going to get into your body within 15 to 20 minutes and start working. But it can make you somewhat drowsy.

So the least sedating antihistamine is Fexofenadine, otherwise known as Allegra. And that one is going to keep you from feeling drowsy and foggy. So it really depends on what you want. I tell my patients to try Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec and figure out which one works best for your body. Thanks.

Related Articles About Allergy Treatments

Can I Take Two Different Allergy Pills in One Day?

12 Remedies to Help You Stop Sneezing During Allergy Season

What Are the Different Ways to Treat Allergies?

Using Antihistamines To Treat Allergy Symptoms

What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Allergic Rhinitis?

Best Treatment for a Stuffy Nose from Allergies

How Do You Get Rid of Allergies?

How To Get Allergy Relief Without Antihistamines

Does Honey Help Treat Allergy Symptoms?

What Are the Best Types of Antihistamines?

What Is the Easiest Way to Start Treating Your Allergies?

What Is the Best OTC Antihistamine for Your Allergies?

How Do Antihistamines Help Your Allergy Symptoms?

Best Types of Allergy Nasal Sprays

How to Treat Allergies Naturally

Best Natural Remedies To Help Allergy Symptoms

Everything You Need to Know About Allergies

8 Ways to Get Rid of Allergies

Why Are Antihistamines Not Working for Me?

How Do Decongestants Work?

Do Humidifiers Help With Allergies?

How to Treat Hay Fever

How to Manage Indoor and Outdoor Airborne Allergens

Best Treatments for Seasonal Allergies

Can You Take Antihistamines Every Day?

How to Manage Indoor and Outdoor Allergies

Debunking 5 Common Myths About Allergies

Why Do Allergies and Antihistamines Make You Feel Tired?

Best Tips for How to Allergy Proof Your Home

Do Antihistamines Cause Weight Gain?

9 Tips for Allergy Relief Without Medicine

5 Ways to Manage Your Allergies At-Home

How to Build Immunity to Seasonal Allergies

Rebound Congestion Causes and How to Prevent It

Is a Humidifier Good for Allergies?

How to Improve Allergies and Asthma Through Allergen Avoidance

How to Reduce Your Summer Allergy Symptoms on Vacation

Is Wyndly right for you?

Answer just a few questions and we'll help you find out.

Get Started Today