Burning eyes, itching, runny nose, sneezing, swelling, rash – these are the allergy symptoms that are virtually familiar to everyone. You have likely suffered from allergies at least once in your life. This is associated not only with discomfort but often with a change in lifestyle. For example, you may no longer be able to go to work, attend your favorite play, go to the cinema, or simply rest peacefully.
Fortunately, there is a way out of this situation: allergy medications. These medicines are a kind of salvation and a miracle for allergic people, for which they are grateful to medicine.
When an allergic reaction begins, the body releases histamine. This is exactly what causes the unpleasant symptoms. Due to high demand and necessity, a wide range of medications is available on the market. This often causes confusion among patients because they do not know how to make a choice. First and foremost, it is important to select medicines based on your symptoms and lifestyle. Also, be sure to consider general medical recommendations, especially when choosing allergy medications for children.
In this blog, you will learn about the main groups of allergy medications, when to use each of them, where to purchase them, what side effects to expect, and how to take safety precautions.
It is important to know that allergy medications are divided into several different groups based on their mechanism of action. Each group helps with different symptoms. Therefore, for an effective course of treatment, you need to take the appropriate medications. There are 5 main categories of allergy medications most commonly prescribed for both adults and children:
Antihistamines – Medications in this group are the most frequently used. Due to their mechanism of action, they block histamine – the substance responsible for itching, sneezing, runny nose, and rashes. As a result, these symptoms, as well as burning and itching of the eyes, are alleviated. It is noteworthy that antihistamines are divided into two main generations. First-generation antihistamines are effective but cause drowsiness. Therefore, they are prescribed only in cases of special need. Second-generation antihistamines are modern, safe, and the optimal choice for daily use – especially in children and during seasonal allergies.
Decongestants – Medications in this group reduce swelling of the airways by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. Decongestants are used in the following cases: nasal congestion, seasonal allergic rhinitis, and swelling caused by respiratory allergies. It should be noted that they must be used very carefully in children, following age-specific restrictions.
Corticosteroids (Steroid Sprays, Creams) – These are powerful anti-inflammatory agents used both locally (nose, eyes, skin) and generally during acute allergic conditions. Their main indications include allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, skin rashes/dermatitis, and severe inflammatory allergic reactions.
Leukotriene Modifiers – Medicines in this group act on leukotrienes, substances that cause inflammation and bronchoconstriction. They are used for asthma-related allergies, seasonal allergies, and chronic respiratory allergies. It is also worth noting that medications in this group are often prescribed when antihistamines are not enough.
Local Agents – Eye drops, nasal sprays, gels. Medications in this group act purposefully on specific areas of the body, such as the eyes, nose, and skin. They are effective for conjunctivitis, itchy eyes, local rashes, and nasal irritation. They are frequently used in children because they do not cause a heavy general load on the body.
Managing allergies in children requires special care because their bodies are still developing and are sensitive to medications. Therefore, when it comes to selecting allergy medications for little ones, safety comes to the forefront.
The Importance of Doctor Consultation
Before taking any medication, a consultation with a doctor is critically important. This is because dosage depends on the child's age, weight, and the severity of symptoms. Medications intended for adults, even in reduced doses, can be dangerous for minors. A doctor chooses not only the right drug but also its optimal form.
Age Restrictions and Forms
Most medications have strict age restrictions. For example, some second-generation antihistamines are approved even for infants (from 6 months), though this is decided individually by a doctor's prescription. Typically, the most convenient dosage forms for parents are:
Drops – For the youngest children who have difficulty swallowing syrup;
Syrups (Suspensions) – Distinguished by a sweet taste and easily accepted;
Chewable tablets – Suitable for older children (usually above 6 years).
If you are interested in allergy medications for children and their prices, you can visit the GPC website to find relevant information. You will find all forms there – drops, syrups, tablets, etc.
Risk of Sedative Effects
First-generation antihistamines are often characterized by a risk of sedative effects – drowsiness. This can interfere with a child's daily activities. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize non-sedative (2nd and 3rd generation) antihistamines for children, which are effective but do not cause strong side effects.
Although allergy medications effectively relieve runny nose, itching, sneezing, and swelling, they can still cause certain side effects. Side effects depend on the drug group, dose, age, and individual sensitivity.
First-generation antihistamines are the group most likely to cause adverse reactions because they cross the blood-brain barrier. Common effects include: drowsiness, fatigue, slowed reactions, dry mouth, dizziness, decreased concentration, and a feeling of numbness. Sometimes, hyperactivity appears in children.
Second-generation antihistamines are much safer and almost never cause drowsiness. Rare side effects may include mild dizziness, headache, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Side effects of decongestants (nasal opening drugs) include changes in blood supply, increased blood pressure, anxiety, lack of sleep, and rarely, hand tremors and irritation of the nasal mucosa. You should know that prolonged use of sprays (3–5 days) can cause "rebound" swelling, making the nose even more congested.
Possible side effects of steroid sprays and creams include: dryness of the nasal mucosa, nosebleeds, and throat irritation. Also, long-term use can lead to a weakening of the local immune response.
Possible side effects of leukotriene inhibitors include: headache, fatigue, disruption of regular sleep-wake cycles, and abdominal pain.
Accordingly, you should know that side effects can be caused by any allergy medication. The main thing is that they are usually not severe; however, if necessary, you should consult a doctor promptly.
Various groups of allergy medications are available in Georgia. It is important that you choose a high-quality and effective option. This is why you should visit the GPC pharmacy chain.
The GPC website significantly simplifies the selection process. You can easily filter medications by category (tablets, syrups, nasal sprays), compare their prices, and read descriptions without leaving your home.
An important recommendation: do not choose a medication based solely on a low price. Always consider the doctor's advice, the drug group, its effectiveness, and safety. This is vital to avoid unwanted side effects.
The fact is that allergy medications should always be taken based on individual needs. Their dosage depends not only on symptoms but also on the patient's age and general condition. To avoid risks caused by self-medication, it is necessary to consult a doctor or a qualified pharmacist, especially when choosing allergy medications for children. This is how the treatment process will proceed effectively. Quality medications can be purchased at the GPC pharmacy chain. Remember that nowadays, dealing with allergies is no longer a problem.
