Allergy Medications
There are many medications that treat allergies. Some allergy medications can only be prescribed by your doctor. Others are available over-the-counter. Medications are most effective if you use them exactly as your doctor tells you.
Prescription
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a type of hormone (not the same as anabolic steroids abused by some athletes). They help reduce swelling and relieve itching and sneezing by protecting the nasal tissues from irritation. Corticosteroids are usually sprayed directly into the nose, but they’re different from decongestant nasal sprays you can buy in a store. Corticosteroid nasal sprays must be prescribed by a doctor, and they should be used regularly to be effective. They can have a few side effects such as dryness, bleeding, or burning. If you need a stronger dose of corticosteroids for a short time, your doctor may prescribe them in pill form.
Anticholinergics
Anticholinergic nasal spray helps relieve a runny nose by keeping your nose from producing too much mucus. This type of nasal spray is only available with a prescription. Use the spray exactly as directed. It may cause side effects such as a dry mouth or a dry nose.
Over-the-Counter
Cromolyn Sodium
Cromolyn sodium nasal spray treats nasal allergy symptoms by helping to prevent cells from releasing histamine. Cromolyn sodium is available over-the-counter. It must be used regularly to be effective. This medication has almost no side effects.
Saline Rinse
Your doctor may suggest that you rinse your nose periodically with salt water (saline solution). This helps soothe and moisturize irritated nasal tissue and cleans out mucus and crusting. You can buy salt-water rinse kits in your local drugstore. If you use both a saline rinse and a nasal spray, use the saline rinse first.