Allergies are a common yet uncomfortable occurrence for many children, and are caused by numerous factors including plants, animals, dust and environmental toxins. Common allergy symptoms include itchy and watery eyes, sore throat, cough, runny nose and overall feeling of head congestion. Many types of medications, over the counter and prescription, are available to treat allergies symptoms in children.
Antihistamines
Histamines are a chemical released by the bodies immune system during an allergic reaction. As the name suggests, antihistamines block histamines within the body, reducing symptoms associated with the production of histamines. Antihistamines are available in pills, liquids and chewable tablets, with many antihistamines made in doses and flavors specifically for children. According to MayoClinic.com, first generation antihistamines including Benadryl, are more likely to cause drowsiness than newer antihistamines, such as Claritin, Zyrtec and Tavist.
Decongestants
Decongestants provide fast-acting temporary allergy relief, and are available in two forms: oral decongestants and nasal decongestant spray. Pseudoephedrine is a common known decongestant, and is sold under the brand name Sudafed and may be used for children age 6 and older. Claritin is allergy medication that contains pseudoephedrine and an antihistamine, and is made in liquid and instant-dissolving tablets for children. Oral decongestants, such as Sudafed and Claritin, may result in irritability, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, insomnia, headaches, anxiety, tremors and increased blood pressure, according to MayoClinic.com.
Nasal sprays containing a decongestant are used to provide fast relief and are easy to use, however may lead to the risk of over use, resulting in dryness and burning or stinging inside the nose. Nasal sprays should not be used for more than a week at a time due to the risk of increased congestion, known as rebound congestion, when use is discontinued.
Singular
Montelukast, known by the prescription name Singular, is an oral medication designed to relieve symptoms, including nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing. Singular works by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, and the FDA warns that leukotriene-blocking medications may cause adverse psychological symptoms in some patients, including irritability, anxiousness, insomnia, hallucinations, aggression, depression, suicidal thinking and suicidal behavior. Singular may be prescribed for children as young as 12 months old therefore parents should be alert to warning signs of possible dangerous side effects.
