HELP!!! What Is An Over The Counter Allergy Medicine That REALLY works?

Question

Only Benadryl clears up my symptoms...itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing. But Benadryl also makes me sooo sleepy!

Answer 1

Benadryl is far and away the champion of over-the-counter allergy medications. But, as you've noticed, it does sedate more than 90% of the population (in fact, many over-the-counter sleeping medications are nothing more than Benadryl packaged under a different name!).

You might try Claritin (loratadine) which is also an over-the-counter allergy medicine. It's not sedating BUT it's not as effective as Benadryl.

If the Claritin doesn't work out, it may be time to try a prescription non-sedating allergy medication like Allegra or Zyrtec. These are more expensive and, in addition, you have to see a doctor to get the prescription.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Benadryl is the best. The key to taking it is to never stop. Over time you will get used to it and the over come the sleepy part. If you have allergies to Mold (as me), this is the only drug I have found that works.

For other allergies, Zyrtec works the best. Note that you can take Benadrly and Zyrtec together (I do).

Answer 3

It stinks. I sometimes give Benadryl to my patients to sleep! Claritin is over the counter.. I wouldn't initially recommend the 24 hour one.. because if it doesn't work, you can't take anything else for 24 hours, haha.. that happened to me. If you really need something that's effective, you need to speak with an MD about a prescription.

Answer 4

I have tried Claratin, with out much relief. I rely on perscription Zyrtec. It rocks!
Good Luck

Answer 5

clariton i think it is called. i think thats otc.
they also have non drowsy benedryl. I saw it the other day
good luck