The 9 Best OTC Allergy Medicines, Approved by 5 Allergy Experts
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The 9 Best OTC Allergy Medicines, Approved by 5 Allergy Experts

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Published on December 4, 2024
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It’s hard to enjoy your day when you’re constantly sneezing, sniffling, and rubbing your eyes due to allergies. For some, seasonal allergies can make certain times of year unbearable. And for others, allergies can be a year-round struggle.

We know how important it is to find relief — especially with more than 100 million people experiencing allergies each year in the U.S. alone.

 Fortunately, there are several types of over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicines, including antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants, that can help control mild to moderate allergy symptoms when allergens can’t be avoided.

To help you find the best option, we spoke with five board-certified experts, including allergists and an optometrist experienced in treating eye allergies, to get their recommendations and insights into what to look for. Read on to find out which OTC allergy medicines they trust and recommend to their patients.

Our Top Picks for Best OTC Allergy Medicine

When to Consult Your Doctor

“Someone should see an allergist when they experience symptoms suggestive of hay fever, such as runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, watery/itchy eyes, chronic sinus infections, and difficulty breathing that lasts several months out of the year,” says Reena Patel, DO, a board-certified allergist and immunologist at AllerVie Health in Hoover, Alabama.

Dr. Patel says you should also consult your doctor for allergies if:

  • You are experiencing side effects from taking allergy medications.
  • Your current OTC allergy medicine is not working.
  • Your allergy symptoms are impacting your daily life.

Best Antihistamine

Zyrtec Allergy Indoor & Outdoor Allergies

$41.70 at Amazon
$43.89Now 5% Off
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Pros

  • Provides 24-hour relief
  • Starts working within one hour
  • Small tablets are easy to swallow
  • Lower risk of drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines

Cons

  • People with kidney disease may need to adjust their dosage
  • Should not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Should avoid alcohol while taking it
  • Active ingredients: Cetirizine hydrochloride (10 mg)
  • Form: Tablet
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 6 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat
  • Frequency of use: Once daily
This nondrowsy antihistamine starts working within an hour and provides up to 24 hours of relief, which is why we recommend it as a top pick. The active ingredient, cetirizine hydrochloride, blocks the effects of histamine, a substance that causes indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms like sneezing and itching.

We like that these tablets are small and easy for most people to swallow. And since it’s considered a second-generation antihistamine, it generally causes less drowsiness than first-generation options like Benadryl, though some may still experience mild drowsiness.

 This is because second-generation antihistamines target receptors outside of the brain, which means they don’t cross the blood-brain barrier as easily as first-generation antihistamines do.
A few considerations when taking Zyrtec: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people who have kidney disease should talk to their doctor before starting this medication. Your doctor may recommend a different product or dosage based on your health and symptoms. It’s also important to note that alcohol could increase the risk of side effects and should be avoided when taking this medicine.

Best Decongestant

Alavert Allergy & Congestion D-12 Hour

$17.07 at Walmart
$14.97Now -14% Off
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Pros

  • Effective for both indoor and outdoor allergies
  • Can help alleviate sinus pressure and congestion
  • Lower risk of drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines
  • Works for up to 12 hours

Cons

  • Requires dosing every 12 hours
  • Can interact with MAOIs and other medications
  • Active ingredients: Loratadine (5 mg), pseudoephedrine sulfate (120 mg)
  • Form: Tablet
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 12 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat, congestion
  • Frequency of use: Twice daily

If you experience nasal congestion and sinus pressure in addition to sneezing and watery eyes, this Alavert D-12 Hour may be worth trying. It contains two active ingredients: loratadine (a second-generation antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine sulfate (a decongestant).

Pseudoephedrine helps relieve nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nose to reduce inflammation, while loratadine blocks histamine to prevent allergy symptoms.

 Alavert is unlikely to cause drowsiness because it contains a second-generation antihistamine and pseudoephedrine sulfate, which is more likely to induce restlessness than fatigue.

 Consider taking it a few hours before bed to reduce the risk of sleeplessness.
The decongestant may interact with other medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) used to treat some forms of depression. The manufacturer recommends asking your doctor before taking Alavert D-12 Hour if you have high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or an enlarged prostate gland.

Best for Nighttime

Benadryl Allergy Liqui-Gels

$6.64 at Amazon
$9.02Now 26% Off
Buy on Amazon $6.64

Pros

  • Dye-free
  • Effective for hay fever and seasonal allergies
  • Can help with sleep, due to its tendency to cause mild drowsiness (off-label use)
  • Also works for hives and other skin allergies

Cons

  • Have to take every four to six hours while symptoms persist
  • Adults may need two capsules per dose
  • Some people may experience agitation instead of drowsiness
  • Active ingredients: Diphenhydramine HCl (25 mg)
  • Form: Liquid gel capsules
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 12 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy throat, itchy/watery eyes
  • Frequency of use: Every four to six hours

Chances are you’ve heard of Benadryl before now. It’s a first-generation antihistamine that is more likely to cause drowsiness than its second-generation counterparts. That’s why we recommend it for occasional nighttime use when your symptoms may interfere with sleep. The active ingredient, diphenhydramine HCl, is also in many over-the-counter sleep aids, such as Unisom.

It can help with the scratchy throat, runny nose, and watery eyes associated with hay fever and seasonal allergies. The manufacturer states that it may also help with cold symptoms, including sneezing and runny nose.

 However, some people experience paradoxical excitation (agitation and restlessness) instead of drowsiness, so be mindful of your reaction to the medication, says Stephen Canfield, MD, a board-certified allergist and immunologist at ColumbiaDoctors and assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Benadryl comes in many forms, but these liquid-filled capsules are dye-free and fairly easy to swallow. You can find tablet, liquid, chewable, and extra-strength versions at most pharmacies and drugstores. While Dr. Canfield says many allergists recommend against taking it daily for sleep (which is an off-label use), it may be helpful on occasion.

Best Dissolvable Tablets

Zyrtec Allergy Dissolve Tabs

$17.75 at Amazon
$20.67Now 14% Off
Buy on Amazon $17.75

Pros

  • Convenient
  • Suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
  • Provides relief for both indoor and outdoor allergies
  • Only requires one tablet per day

Cons

  • May interact with other medications
  • More expensive than some other allergy medications
  • People with kidney disease may need to adjust dosage
  • Active ingredients: Cetirizine HCl (10 mg)
  • Form: Dissolvable tablet
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 6 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, itchy throat or nose
  • Frequency of use: Once daily

These quick-dissolve Zyrtec tablets take only a few seconds to break down in your mouth. They’re a worthwhile option if you struggle with swallowing capsules or prefer something that doesn't require water. We love the convenience — they’re easy to take on the go and don’t require measuring like liquid versions.

These contain the same active ingredient as Zyrtec tablets (cetirizine hydrochloride) and should provide comparable relief. The flavor is a bonus, especially for children who may struggle with other forms of medication. It only requires one tablet every 24 hours — an extra bonus if you tend to forget to take medicine throughout the day.

The main downside of this medication is the price. These are more expensive than traditional Zyrtec tablets, but the convenience may outweigh the cost. The manufacturer recommends speaking with a pharmacist if you take any sedative medications. It also warns people with kidney disease to consult with a doctor, as they may advise you to take a lower dose or avoid it altogether.

Best Nasal Steroid Spray

Flonase Allergy Relief

$26.59 at Amazon
$27.99Now 5% Off
Buy on Amazon $26.59

Pros

  • Safe for long-term use in adults
  • Effectively treats most common allergy symptoms
  • Lower risk of drowsiness compared to oral options
  • Great for people who can’t swallow pills

Cons

  • May cause nasal irritation or dryness
  • Takes a few weeks for full effectiveness
  • Long-term use can stunt growth in children
  • Active ingredients: Fluticasone propionate (50 mcg)
  • Form: Nasal spray
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 12 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose, runny nose, sneezing
  • Frequency of use: Once daily

“Nasal steroids like Flonase help reduce inflammation and swelling in your nose, and thus they relieve symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and postnasal drip,” says Purvi Parikh, MD, a board-certified allergist with the Allergy & Asthma Network.

Dr. Parikh says Flonase can aid in opening congestion-related blockages in tear ducts, as well as non-allergy-related symptoms that result from the common cold, viruses, irritants, pollution, and temperature changes. However, it can take several weeks for you to see the full benefits. Since it’s a steroid, it can increase the risk of growth suppression in children who use it for prolonged periods, so talk to your child’s doctor before starting it.

When used as directed, Flonase provides all-day relief and is safe for daily use in adults. The manufacturer recommends using it once a day. We like that this nasal spray targets inflammation and swelling directly in the nasal passages all allergy season long.

Best Nasal Antihistamine Spray

Astepro Allergy Antihistamine Nasal Spray

$31.83 at Amazon
Check stock at Amazon

Pros

  • Steroid-free
  • Starts working in 30 minutes
  • Can reduce symptoms for up to 24 hours
  • Free of fragrances and alcohol

Cons

  • May contribute to headaches
  • Can cause temporary burning or stinging in the nose
  • May require multiple sprays per nostril
  • Active ingredients: Azelastine HCl (205.5 mcg)
  • Form: Nasal spray
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 6 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose
  • Frequency of use: Once or twice daily
Unlike Flonase, which requires a few weeks to work at full effectiveness, Astepro can start working in as little as 30 minutes. It’s a steroid-free alternative that contains azelastine hydrochloride — an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine and relieves allergy symptoms caused by pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and dust.

Since it’s not a corticosteroid, Astepro may be a better choice if you’re sensitive to steroids or have experienced side effects from other nasal sprays. You can decide whether to take two sprays in each nostril once a day or one spray in each nostril twice daily. You shouldn’t use more than four sprays per day.

It’s worth noting that while Astepro may provide faster relief than some other nasal sprays, it can cause side effects, the most common being headaches and temporary burning or stinging after use.

 Some users report feeling drowsy or an unpleasant aftertaste after spraying, but it’s mostly mild and well tolerated.

Best for Eye Allergies

Pataday Once Daily Relief

$20 at Amazon
$37.99Now 47% Off
Buy on Amazon $20

Pros

  • Starts working within minutes
  • Provides 24 hours of relief
  • Only need one drop per eye
  • Contains a proven active ingredient

Cons

  • Must wait 10 minutes before putting contact lenses in
  • Can cause temporary eye irritation or blurred vision
  • May take a few weeks for full effectiveness
  • Active ingredients: Olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution (0.7 percent)
  • Form: Eye drops
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 2 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Itchy eyes, watery eyes, redness, inflammation
  • Frequency of use: Once daily

Pataday contains the active ingredient olopatadine (an antihistamine) and therefore blocks histamines and reduces the release of chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, says Meenal Agarwal, OD, a board-certified optometrist and founder of three optometry practices in Ontario, Canada.

She adds that Pataday can relieve symptoms associated with allergic conjunctivitis (pink eye), ocular allergies, and inflammation such as redness, itchy and watery eyes, and eyelid swelling. You need one drop per eye, once a day, in the morning or evening.

Dr. Agarwal points out that Pataday is most effective when used consistently. “I recommend my patients use it during the entire allergy season period. So if they know they usually get allergies in the fall and the spring, use it for those few months consistently and stop in the winter and summer months,” she says. The main drawbacks are that it can cause temporary eye irritation or blurred vision (which usually only lasts a few minutes while the drops settle) and requires a 10-minute wait before inserting contact lenses.

Best for Kids

Children’s Allegra Allergy

$17.06 at Amazon
$19.99Now 15% Off
Buy on Amazon $17.06

Pros

  • Dye-free
  • Doesn’t contain alcohol
  • Less likely to cause drowsiness
  • Also available in chewable tablets

Cons

  • Contains sugar
  • May require two doses per day
  • Should not be taken with fruit juice
  • Active ingredients: Fexofenadine HCl (30 mg/5 mL)
  • Form: Liquid
  • Recommended age: Children ages 2 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat
  • Frequency of use: Twice daily

Children’s Allegra is our top pick for managing mild indoor and outdoor allergies in children. It’s a second-generation antihistamine — meaning less drowsiness — that works fast and lasts up to 12 hours. This liquid form is alcohol and dye-free and comes in grape and berry flavors. There’s also a chewable orange cream version if your child despises taking liquid medication.

Like other antihistamines, Children’s Allegra can help with symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and an itchy throat triggered by allergens. But unlike some adult formulas, it contains sugar, so it’s not ideal if you’re limiting or avoiding your child’s sugar intake.

Children as young as 2 years old can take this medicine up to twice a day, based on the severity of their symptoms. We advise that you follow your pediatrician’s instructions and avoid taking more than the recommended dose. That said, it’s a safe option for kids and has few side effects. Per the manufacturer, avoid taking it with fruit juice, as that may decrease its effectiveness.

Over the counter allergy medicine, Claritin- D

Best Combination Allergy Medicine

Claritin-D Allergy & Congestion

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Pros

  • Nondrowsy
  • Convenient extended-release tablets
  • Effective at reducing nasal congestion
  • May also help with headaches from sinus pressure

Cons

  • May cause restlessness
  • May be harder to find than other options
  • Active ingredients: Loratadine (5 mg), pseudoephedrine sulfate (120 mg)
  • Form: Tablets
  • Recommended age: Adults and children ages 12 and older
  • Symptoms treated: Nasal congestion, sinus pressure, sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, and itchy throat or nose
  • Frequency of use: Twice daily

Beyond stand-alone antihistamines, some allergy sufferers find relief by combining a decongestant with an antihistamine. Claritin-D is one of the best options on the market for this purpose because it targets common allergy symptoms in addition to the swelling that leads to sinus pressure and nasal congestion, says Thomas So, PharmD, senior manager of the consumer drug information group at First Databank.

These extended-release tablets are nondrowsy and can provide relief for up to 12 hours. It starts working within 30 minutes, so you can take it as needed. But here’s the catch: Claritin-D contains pseudoephedrine — a stimulant that can cause restlessness, anxiety, and increased blood pressure in some, says So, who recommends taking it during the daytime to reduce sleep disturbances.

Because it contains pseudoephedrine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires it to be kept behind the pharmacy counter.

 Still, you don’t need a prescription to purchase it, though you must show a valid ID. Your pharmacist may also limit the amount you can buy at one time to prevent potential abuse. Pseudoephedrine can interfere with MAOIs and should not be taken without speaking to your doctor if you have a heart issue, kidney or liver disease, thyroid problems, or diabetes.

Comparison Table

Best
Active Ingredients
Form
Recommended Age
Symptoms Treated
Frequency
Zyrtec Allergy Indoor & Outdoor Allergies
Antihistamine
Cetirizine hydrochloride (10 mg)
Tablet
Adults and children ages 6 and older
Runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat
Once daily
Buy
Alavert Allergy & Congestion D-12 Hour
Decongestant
Loratadine (5 mg), pseudoephedrine sulfate (120 mg)
Tablet
Adults and children ages 12 and older
Runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat, congestion
Twice daily
Buy
Benadryl Allergy Liqui-Gels
For nighttime
Diphenhydramine HCl (25 mg)
Liquid gel capsules
Adults and children ages 12 and older
Sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy throat, itchy/watery eyes
Every 4 to 6 hours
Buy
Zyrtec Allergy Dissolve Tabs
Dissolvable tablets
Cetirizine HCl (10 mg)
Dissolvable tablet
Adults and children 6 years and older
Sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, itchy throat or nose
Once daily
Buy
Flonase Allergy Relief
Nasal steroid
Fluticasone propionate (50 mcg)
Nasal spray
Adults and children ages 12 and older
Nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose, runny nose, sneezing
Once daily
Buy
Astepro Allergy Antihistamine Nasal Spray
Nasal antihistamine
Azelastine HCl (205.5 mcg)
Nasal spray
Adults and children ages 6 and older
Nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose
Once or twice daily
Buy
Pataday Once Daily Relief
For eye allergies
Olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution (0.7 percent)
Eye drops
Adults and children ages 2 and older
Itchy eyes, watery eyes, redness, inflammation
Once daily
Buy
Children's Allegra Allergy
For kids
Fexofenadine HCl (30 mg/5 mL)
Liquid
Children ages 2 and older
Sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, itchy nose or throat
Twice daily
Buy
Claritin-D Allergy & Congestion
Combination allergy medicine
Loratadine (5 mg), pseudoephedrine sulfate (120 mg)
Tablets
Adults and children ages 12 and older
Nasal congestion, sinus pressure, sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, and scratchy throat or nose
Twice daily
Buy

How We Tested the OTC Allergy Medicines

To help you decide which OTC allergy treatment is best, we turned to a handful of experts and considered several factors, such as active ingredients, available forms, the recommended age for safe use, and how frequently the medication has to be taken to keep symptoms at bay. We also factored in safety, price, and the overall effectiveness of each medication based on our expert’s insights.

Our experts included a panel of board-certified allergists, immunologists, and pharmacists. They helped us narrow down the options by sharing safety considerations and the products they typically recommend to their patients. These are the experts we spoke with:

  • Reena Patel, DO, board-certified allergist and immunologist at AllerVie Health in Hoover, Alabama
  • Purvi Parikh, MD, board-certified allergist with the Allergy & Asthma Network
  • Stephen Canfield, MD, board-certified allergist and immunologist at ColumbiaDoctors and assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center
  • Meenal Agarwal, board-certified optometrist and founder of three optometry practices in Ontario, Canada
  • Thomas So, PharmD, senior manager of the consumer drug information group at First Databank

What to Look for When Buying an OTC Allergy Medicine

If you’re like many allergy sufferers, you probably want fast relief at a reasonable price. To get the most bang for your buck, we recommend reading the medication’s label thoroughly before purchasing it, so you know exactly what’s in the product before checking out. Below, we’ve listed a few key things to look for when buying OTC allergy medicine. Here’s what experts say you should consider.

  • Active ingredients: Depending on your symptoms, the active ingredients should match the condition you’re trying to treat. For instance, a nasal spray may be helpful if your symptoms are mostly nasal-related. If you’re worried about a range of symptoms caused by seasonal allergies, you’ll want to consider an antihistamine.
  • Form: Allergy medicine comes in liquids, tablets, sprays, capsules, and dissolvable options. We recommend choosing a liquid, chewable, or nasal spray if you have difficulty swallowing pills.
  • Potential side effects: Some options are more likely to cause drowsiness than others. If this concerns you, look for nondrowsy options or check the product label to see if it contains first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine, which are more likely to make you tired.

  • Potential interactions: Check the product label or speak to a pharmacist if you take other medications, as some ingredients may interact with them. One example is pseudoephedrine, which can interact with MAOIs.
  • Health conditions: Some allergy medicines may not be safe for individuals with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney or liver disease. Decongestants like pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure in people with hypertension. In addition, you should speak to your doctor before taking allergy medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How Long Does It Take OTC Allergy Medicine to Work?

Patel says oral antihistamines usually start working within 30 minutes of taking them but can take two hours to reach maximum effectiveness. First-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl, are shorter acting and only last four to six hours. In comparison, second-generation antihistamines have a longer active duration and can last between 12 and 24 hours, she adds.

Nasal corticosteroid sprays require more regular use to see a significant effect. “They typically start working within a few days but can take several weeks to fully show effects,” Patel says. On the other hand, nasal antihistamine sprays, such as Astepro, start working within 30 minutes and are effective for up to 24 hours, depending on the severity of your allergies.

What Are the Side Effects of OTC Allergy Medicines?

Side effects vary by person and active ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of some common side effects based on the type of allergy medicine.

First-generation antihistamines:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Ringing in ears

Second-generation antihistamines:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea


Nasal corticosteroids:

  • Burning or stinging
  • Dryness
  • Nosebleeds
  • Blood-tinged mucus


Nasal decongestants:

  • Restlessness or agitation
  • Headache
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Rebound congestion


Should You Take Antihistamines During the Day or at Night?

Canfield says it depends on how the antihistamine affects you. “For some individuals who are sensitive to the drowsiness-inducing side effects of antihistamines, before-bedtime dosing makes the most sense,” he says. However, if drowsiness isn’t an issue, he recommends timing the dose based on when you typically experience allergy symptoms, such as in the morning if you experience more symptoms during the day.

Antihistamine nasal sprays typically don’t cause drowsiness, Canfield says, so they can be used as needed, based on your symptoms. He adds that corticosteroid nasal sprays take a few days or weeks to reach maximum effectiveness and are best taken at the same time each day during allergy season, regardless of when you experience the most symptoms.

The Difference Between Seasonal Allergies and Allergic Reactions

Seasonal allergies typically occur during specific times of the year when various allergen levels are high. These reactions are caused by dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, grasses, and weeds. Allergic reactions, on the other hand, can happen at any time of year and are caused by irritants such as an insect sting, medication, or food allergies.

For mild allergic reactions that cause a rash or mild itching, over-the-counter antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine can often help alleviate symptoms.

Applying a topical anti-itch cream, like hydrocortisone, may also help. However, it is important to monitor your symptoms and see your doctor if they worsen or persist.

Severe symptoms — including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, increased heart rate, fainting, or a rapid drop in blood pressure — warrant immediate medical attention at the closest emergency room. These signs could indicate an anaphylactic reaction, which is a potentially life-threatening response to an allergen. People with known anaphylactic allergies should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) with them and use it as directed if symptoms occur. Tell your family and friends about your allergies and make sure they know how and when to administer the EpiPen in case of an emergency.

Additionally, if mild symptoms worsen or if you have any concerns about how your body reacts to a specific substance or allergen, it is important to talk to your doctor or allergist about allergy testing and treatment options. An allergist can help you pinpoint triggers and make a plan to avoid and manage your allergies.

FAQ

What is the most effective OTC allergy medication?
It depends on your symptoms and your body’s reaction to the medication. Some people find relief with antihistamines, while others may prefer a nasal corticosteroid because it targets nasal inflammation and congestion. It usually takes some trial and error to determine what works best for you.
Some people may need to take allergy medicine daily during allergy season, while others may only need it when symptoms are particularly bothersome or when exposed to a trigger like pollen. An oral antihistamine or nasal steroid may work best if you need daily relief. However, if you only experience occasional symptoms, an as-needed antihistamine that starts working fast may be the better option. A doctor or allergist is your best resource for determining what to take and when.
Both are effective antihistamines for treating allergy-induced sneezing, runny nose, and watery or itchy eyes, says So. “Zyrtec is considered stronger and tends to work faster, within an hour, while Claritin can take longer to work, up to three hours to reach full effect,” he says. While both are considered nondrowsy, Zyrtec is more likely to cause drowsiness than Claritin, according to So.

Allergists generally recommend that anyone with a history of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis see a specialist to identify their specific triggers and develop an action plan for avoiding them. Additionally, people with heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, an enlarged prostate, thyroid problems, or glaucoma should talk to their doctor before taking allergy medicine, as should women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Some medications, especially ones used to treat depression, can interact with allergy medicine. It’s always important to read the product label and speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you have any concerns about potential drug interactions. If you are taking MAOI inhibitors, it’s important to avoid pseudoephedrine-containing products such as Alavert Nasal Spray, Afrin, Sudafed, Claritin-D, and Zyrtec-D.

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Lindsay Modglin

Author

Lindsay Modglin is a former nurse and health writer who specializes in covering chronic illness, women's health, oncology, and wellness products that help empower readers to take control of their health and well-being. Her byline has been featured in many digital publications, including Healthline, Verywell Health, Parents, Forbes, Yahoo, AOL, Insider, and more. Her print work has been published in oncology magazines like Cancer Today and Cure.

Prior to becoming a writer, Lindsay started working in healthcare in 2012 as an optician while she was pursuing her nursing license before working as a registered nurse in a clinical healthcare setting. This experience gave her firsthand knowledge of the challenges and complexities that patients face when managing chronic illnesses and navigating the healthcare system.

Today, when Lindsay is not writing, she enjoys camping and traveling across the United States with her husband and three children. She also volunteers as a creative writer for a non-profit organization that supports children with life-threatening illnesses and as a soccer coach for her children's teams.

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