Allergies are a response of the immune system to allergens, which can be from the outdoors or indoors and can affect the sinuses, eyes and skin. Prescription allergy medicines act by reducing the body's reaction to allergens. Corticosteroids, antihistamines and decongestants are used individually or in combination to treat allergy symptoms.
Oral Corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids are available as pills or liquids for use in severe allergic reactions. Prednisone and prednisolone are examples of oral corticosteroids. The usual dosage is for short-term use to alleviate severe symptoms. Long-term use can cause muscle weakness and cataracts, according to Mayo Clinic.
Nasal Sprays
Corticosteroids are available as nasal sprays in brand names such as Beconase, Vancenase, Flonase, Nasonex and Nasacort. Nasal spray corticosteroids are used for relieving and preventing the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. RxList.com cautions the use of prescription corticosteroids as a nasal spray, such as Nasacort, include the possibility of nosebleeds and cataracts.
Inhaled Corticosteroids
The use of inhaled corticosteroids may be prescribed for allergic reactions triggering an asthma attack. Flovent, Azmacort, Pulmicort and Aerobid are examples of inhaled corticosteroids used for maintenance to control asthmatic reactions. The proper maintenance dose will be set by your doctor and is determined by your age and any other health issues.
Other Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid eye drops and skin creams are other prescription medications to treat allergies. Eyedrops, such as Maxides and Pred Forte, are prescribed to alleviate allergy symptoms such as red, itchy eyes. Skin creams for eczema include Cortaid and Kenalog.
Oral Antihistamines
Prescription oral antihistamines are a higher dosage than those available over the counter. Allegra and Clarinex are two drugs prescribed to help stop the sneezing and runny nose associated with allergies. Either may be prescribed in a combination with a decongestant, such as Allegra D and Clarinex-D. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that the most common treatments for allergies are antihistamines and decongestants.
Other Antihistamines
Antihistamine nasal sprays available by prescription include Astelin and Patanase. Possible side effects include nosebleed, headache and bitter taste. Prescription antihistamine eye drops include Albalon, Emadine and Patanol. Antihistamine eye drops should be used with contact lenses only with your doctor's approval.
Decongestants
Oral and nasal decongestants may be prescribed to relieve the congestion resulting from an allergic reaction. Decongestants, such as Sudafed and Contac Non-Drowsy, are available as over-the-counter medications but should never be taken with prescription treatment for allergy symptoms without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Some prescription medications already contain a decongestant.
Singulair
The action of Singulair is to block leukotrienes. It is a non-steroidal treatment for asthma and allergic rhinitis. According to Singulair.com, the most common side effects include heartburn, cough, stomach pain, headache and dizziness.
