Allergic rhinitis refers to a type of allergy in which people adversely respond to dust, dander or pollen. MedlinePlus indicates that signs of a allergic rhinitis include a runny nose, sneezing, a runny nose and itching of the eyes, throat, skin or mouth. In some instances, allergic rhinitis leads to coughing, a headache and dark circles underneath the eyes. Fortunately, drugs for allergic rhinitis exist.
Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine, commonly sold as Allegra, acts as an antihistamine medication to prevent the release of histamine, a substance responsible for sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, says Drugs.com. In some instances, fexofenadine treats itchy skin.
Fexofenadine's less concerning side effects include menstrual cramping, back or muscle pain, fatigue, drowsiness and diarrhea. At times, fexofenadine leads to nausea, stomach problems and a headache. Phone a doctor when fexofenadine's less serious side effects last for more than 6 days.
Sometimes, an allergic reaction results from fexofenadine use. Signs of an allergic reaction to this drug involve difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, face, lips or throat. Call 911 because this is a medical emergency.
Drugs.com says that antacids should be taken within 15 minutes before or after taking fexofenadine. In some cases, antacids can affect fexofenadine's absorption.
Fexofenadine is a tablet taken daily or as indicated.
Azelastine
Azelastine, commonly sold as Astelin, is another antihistamine medication that reduces sneezing and an itchy or runny nose.
Azelastine is not expected to cause any effects. However, in some instances, azelastine causes such serious side effects as fatigue, muscle pain and nasal burning. Sometimes, azelastine leads to a bitter taste in the mouth and weight gain. Talk to a doctor when azelastine's serious side effects develop.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking azelastine because this causes increased drowsiness.
Azelastine is a nasal spray that is sprayed twice a day into each nostril.
Monteleukast
Monteleukast, commonly sold as Singulair, is a leukotriene inhibitor that fight allergic rhinitis symptoms. Drugs.com says that leukotrienes are substances which cause airway constriction and lung swelling. Montelukast interferes with these substances.
Monteleukast's less concerning side effects include a headache, stomach pain, a fever, a rash and fatigue. In some instances, monteleukast causes nausea, a sore throat, a cough, diarrhea and heartburn. Phone a doctor when monteleukast's less serious side effects develop.
Monteleukast's serious side effects include tremors, shaking, depression, a skin rash and bruising. In some instances, this medication may also cause muscle weakness, suicidal thoughts and irritation. Call a physician immediately when montelukast's serious side effects develop.
Avoid monteleukast if you have a history of phenylketonuria, a medical condition in which the body is unable to break down the amino acid phenylalanine. In some cases, monteleukast contains phenylalanine.
Monteleukast is a tablet taken daily or as indicated.
