Strongest allergy medicine: What works fast for allergy relief

In this article:

• What are the best allergy medications?
• Compare allergy medication
• How to choose the strongest allergy medicine
• Managing allergies beyond medication

In this article

• What are the best allergy medications?
• Compare allergy medication
• How to choose the strongest allergy medicine
• Managing allergies beyond medication

Allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat can make you miserable, whether you’re allergic to pet dander, pollen, or something else in the air. In the United States, millions of people live with year-long or seasonal allergies, with many relying on over-the-counter (OTC) options for relief. Although there’s no single strongest allergy medicine that works the same for everyone, there are plenty of options for managing symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), ranging from antihistamines to oral decongestants. 

What are the best allergy medications?

There are many types of allergy medications available. Some treat sneezing and runny nose, while others may be more helpful for itchy eyes and congestion. The best option will depend on the type of symptoms you have, how sensitive you are to side effects, and other factors, such as your age and weight.

Many allergy medications are available in prescription and OTC forms. A healthcare provider can help determine whether a stronger prescription version may be more helpful than OTC options.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are medications that relieve allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose, by blocking histamine—a chemical that triggers these symptoms. There are two main types of antihistamines:

• First-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), help with allergy symptoms but come with increased drowsiness.
• Second-generation antihistamines, like Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Allegra (fexofenadine), are less likely to cause drowsiness and may be safer if you need ongoing allergy relief.

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat seasonal allergies, indoor allergies, and hives. Most oral antihistamines start working within one hour, with some acting even faster. Possible side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, and sometimes an upset stomach.

Nasal steroid sprays

Nasal steroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, easing congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching. They work by decreasing swelling and mucus production inside the nose, making it easier to breathe. They’re especially helpful for allergic rhinitis and persistent indoor allergies. 

Common options include Flonase (fluticasone), Nasacort (triamcinolone), and Rhinocort (budesonide), available both OTC and by prescription. These sprays work best when used daily, but it may take several days to feel the full effect. Side effects are usually mild and can include nasal dryness, nosebleeds, or sore throat.

Allergy Medicine Coupons & Resources

Decongestants

Decongestants help relieve nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. They provide quick relief, often within 30 minutes to an hour, and can last for several hours. Decongestants are available in oral forms, such as Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), and combination products like Claritin-D and Zyrtec-D, which contain both a decongestant and an antihistamine.

Nasal spray versions are also available for fast-acting relief. These medicines are typically used short-term, usually no more than three to five days, to avoid rebound congestion. They can cause side effects like trouble sleeping, jitteriness, or a rapid heartbeat. People with high blood pressure should consult a healthcare provider before using these medications.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Leukotriene receptor antagonists block substances called leukotrienes that cause inflammation and tightening in the airways. These medications are mainly used for asthma and allergic rhinitis, especially when allergies affect breathing or cause symptoms like sneezing and congestion. 

Common leukotriene receptor antagonists include Singulair (montelukast), Accolate (zafirlukast), and Zyflo (zileuton). These come as tablets, chewables, or granules and are often prescribed for both adults and children, including young kids. They’re taken once daily and may take a few days to weeks to show effects. Side effects are usually mild, such as headaches or stomach pain, but serious side effects, including mood changes, are also possible.

Mast cell stabilizers

Mast cell stabilizers prevent allergy symptoms by stopping mast cells from releasing histamine and other substances that can cause inflammation. They’re used for hay fever, allergic eye problems, and sometimes asthma. However, they work best when used consistently and started before symptoms appear. They don’t provide quick relief for sudden allergy attacks. 

Common options include Nasalcrom (cromolyn sodium), Alocril (nedocromil), and Alamast (pemirolast). Most of these medications are available by prescription, so you’ll need to consult your healthcare provider. They’re generally well tolerated, with mild side effects like eye or nasal irritation, headache, or a bad taste in the mouth. 

Anticholinergic nasal sprays

Anticholinergic nasal sprays treat a runny nose by blocking signals that cause excess mucus production. They’re effective for both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis but don’t relieve stuffiness or sneezing. A common example is Atrovent (ipratropium bromide). 

This spray starts working within 15 minutes and is often used when other treatments fail to control a persistent runny nose. Atrovent is approved for both adults and children. Side effects can include dry nose, headache, and nosebleeds. 

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the immune system get used to allergens over time. It might include allergy shots, drops, or tablets that contain small amounts of allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites to build tolerance to them over time. This treatment is often recommended for adults and children who don’t get enough relief from regular allergy medicines.
Immunotherapy usually takes several months to start working, and it may take a year or more to see the full benefits. Treatment is administered on a set schedule, starting with weekly sessions that gradually become less frequent. Side effects are usually mild, like swelling or itching at the injection site, although serious allergic reactions are possible.

Compare allergy medication
	Antihistamines	Decongestants	Nasal steroids	Mast cell stabilizers	Leukotriene receptor antagonists
Best for	Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes	Nasal congestion	Nasal inflammation, congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes	Runny nose, itchy, runny eyes and asthma associated with allergies	Allergic rhinitis and asthma associated with allergies
Examples	Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), Benadryl (diphenhydramine)	Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), Afrin (oxymetazoline)	Flonase (fluticasone), Nasonex (mometasone)	NasalCrom (cromolyn sodium), Alocril (nedocromil)	Singulair (montelukast), Accolate (zafirlukast), Zyflo (zileuton)
Dosage forms	Tablets, liquids, dissolvable tabs	Tablets, nasal sprays	Nasal sprays	Nasal sprays, eye drops	Tablets, chewables
Prescription or OTC	Both	OTC	OTC	Both	Prescription only
Preventive or as-needed basis	As needed	As needed	Preventive	Preventive	Preventive
Age restrictions	Varies by drug, some for age 2+	Often 6+ years	Usually 2+ years	Usually 2+ years	Usually 6+ months
How long do they take to work?	15–60 minutes	15–30 minutes	A few days to weeks for full benefits	1–2 weeks for full effect	Several hours
Do they cause drowsiness?	First-gen: Yes Second-gen: No	No	No	No	No
Avoid or limit use in these groups of people	Older adults (first-gen), people with glaucoma	People with high blood pressure or heart disease	People with nasal injuries or frequent nosebleeds	Not for acute relief	Neuropsychiatric history (black box warning)
Safe during pregnancy?	Yes	Oral decongestants: No Nasal decongestants: Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Safe during breastfeeding?	Yes	Oral decongestants: No Nasal decongestants: Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

 

How to choose the strongest allergy medicine

Finding the right allergy medicine can feel overwhelming, especially when the allergy medication aisle is packed with options. It may seem faster to grab whatever promises fast relief, but talking to a healthcare provider or pharmacist first is a smart move. 

Read package labels for active ingredients and warnings

Always check the label to see what active ingredients are included, as some are used for specific symptoms. Pay close attention to warnings about health conditions or possible allergic reactions.

Look for non-drowsy formulas if you need to be alert

If you need to drive, work, or attend school, consider a non-drowsy (second-generation antihistamine) option, such as Claritin or Allegra. First-generation options may cause sleepiness.

Decide between as-needed or daily-use products

Some allergy medicines, like antihistamines, are best for quick relief when symptoms come up, while others, like nasal steroid sprays, work best when taken daily to prevent symptoms. Choose based on how often you experience allergies.

Choose a drug form you prefer

Allergy medications come in various forms, including pills, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Choose the form that’s easiest for you to use and targets your symptoms. For example, use eye drops if you have itchy eyes.

Read about possible side effects

Side effects can vary depending on the medicine. Some may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, headaches, or stomach upset. Always check the packaging or ask a pharmacist so you know what to expect and how to manage any potential reactions.

Make sure it won’t interact with other medicines

If you are taking other medications or supplements, read the label or consult a healthcare provider about potential interactions. Some allergy medicines can interfere with other drugs.

Check age restrictions and safety for children or older adults

Not all allergy medicines are safe for young children or older adults. Look for age recommendations and talk to a healthcare provider before giving any medication to children or older adults.

Compare prices and look for generic versions

Many allergy medicines have less expensive generic versions with the same active ingredients. Compare prices to save money without sacrificing effectiveness.

Consult a healthcare provider

If you experience more severe symptoms regularly, you may want to consult a healthcare provider for a stronger, prescription-strength option to better control your condition. In addition, if you have health problems like heart disease or kidney disease, you may need to use extra caution and get professional advice before starting something new. 

Not all allergy medicines are safe for everyone. Take some time to think through your choices to avoid side effects and pick the right choice for your symptoms.

Managing allergies beyond medication

Although many people depend on medicine for allergy relief, lifestyle changes can be helpful too. Alongside medication, there are practical steps anyone can take to help control and even prevent symptoms. 

Try some of these daily habits and small adjustments at home:

• Using a neti pot or nasal rinse to clean out pollen and dust from the nose
• Changing air filters in the home often to trap allergens
• Vacuuming and dusting regularly to remove pet hair and particles
• Washing bedding in hot water once a week
• Keeping windows closed during high-pollen seasons
• Showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors
• Limiting outdoor activities when pollen counts are high
• Using air purifiers with HEPA filters in bedrooms

While these tips aren’t a perfect solution for managing allergies, they may help lower your exposure to allergens and keep symptoms mild. It’s best to experiment and find different methods that work best for you.