Allergies to foreign substances cause your immune system to produce IgE antibodies (named for the immunoglobulin E protein they are composed of) against them, triggering histamines and other chemicals to initiate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. This reaction varies from person to person, and can be in response to everything from plant pollens to animal dander. Depending on the specific allergy symptom and the severity of it, several over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to help relieve allergy symptoms and prevent a potentially deadly reaction in some patients.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Available in a nasal spray or an aerosol powder form that is inhaled, these corticosteroids help reduce the stuffiness and irritation often associated with hay fever or other allergies, according to Drugs.com. These are only available by prescription, and common brand names include Omnaris, Rhinocort, Flonase and Nasonex.
Antihistamines
These medications, available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths, prevent the sneezing, runny nose and other allergy symptoms caused by the chemical histamine, states Drugs.com. They are available in the form of chewable or regular tablets, liquid suspensions and suppositories. Common brand names of antihistamines include Benadryl, Clarinex, Allegra, Alavert and Children's Pedia Care.
Decongestants
Pseudoephedrine is a common decongestant, which Drugs.com states shrinks the mucous membranes in the sinuses, effectively causing drainage. This action reduces stuffiness and congestion caused by allergies, but this drug should not be taken by breastfeeding women, patients taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors, often taken to treat depression) or those suffering from coronary artery disease or severe hypertension. Available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths as a pill or liquid, common brand names of pseudoephedrine include Sudafed, Triaminic Infant Oral Decongestant Drops and Halofed.
Immunotherapy
According to the Mayo Clinic, more severe allergies may require immunotherapy treatments, more commonly known as allergy shots. During this type of therapy, your doctor will administer a series of injections consisting of very pure allergen extracts. Immunotherapy lasts for an extended period of time, usually a few years.
Epinephrine
Some severe allergy reactions can lead to hospitalization and/or life-threatening symptoms such as constricted airways. The Mayo Clinic explains that patients with these recurring severe symptoms may be prescribed an epinephrine injection to be self-administered while waiting for medical treatment. Common brand names of these shots include EpiPen, EpiPen Jr. and Twinject.
Other Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, other medications available that can reduce allergy symptoms include cromolyn sodium and leukotriene modifiers. These prescription medications are primarily used to treat asthma. The dosage and type of medication used depends on the patient's history and the specific type of allergy symptoms, so ask your doctor which of these may be right for you.
