For chronic sinus congestion due to allergies, allergy medicines offer an effective treatment. About 25 percent of Americans suffer from allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergies represent the fifth leading chronic disease in the United States. Congestion is a normal symptom of allergic sinusitis, or sinus inflammation. Allergy medicines for sinus congestion typically come in pill form but can also be prescribed as nasal sprays or eye drops.
Cetirizine
Cetirizine is the active ingredient in both prescription drugs such as Zyrtec and over-the-counter drugs such as Sudafed. An antihistamine, cetirizine works by blocking histamine, a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Cetirizine comes as a tablet, chewable tablet and a liquid. Side effects include drowsiness, dehydration, diarrhea and stomach pain. Cetirizine should not be taken for more than three days unless it is prescribed by a physician. Pregnant women should consult a doctor prior to taking cetirizine.
Mometasone
Mometasone is the active ingredient in nasal inhalants such as Nasonex. A topical steroid, mometasone should always be prescribed and supervised by a physician. Topical steroids are typically not prescribed for long-term use. Normally, a patient with allergic sinus congestion will use the spray for a few weeks at the beginning of the allergy season. Allergy patients use mometasone once or twice daily. It delivers a fine spray inside each nostril. Topical steroids can have serious side effects when used long-term, including growth delay in children, vision problems, severe headaches, weight gain and chronic cough.
Azelastine
Azelastine is the active ingredient in nasal inhalants such as Astepro and Astelin. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, azelastine is the leading nasal antihistamine prescribed in the United States. Side effects include dizziness, bitter taste in mouth, dry mouth, red eyes, nausea and nosebleeds.
Clarinex D
Clarinex D is a combination of desloratadine and pseudoephedrine. Desloratadine is an antihistamine. Pseudoephedrine relieves congestion by shrinking blood vessels in the nose. Clarinex D has an advantage in that one form of the medication lasts for a full 24 hours and can be used safely in patients age 12 and older. Clarinex D cannot be used safely in patients taking monoamine oxidase, or MAO inhibitors, drugs that treat illnesses such as depression and Parkinson's disease. Side effects include headaches, impaired thinking, insomnia, dizziness and fatigue.
