Many patients take an anti-allergy tablet whenever symptoms start, without knowing that different medicines work in different ways, and that the right one depends on where the allergy is and how severe it is. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains the main types of allergy medicines and how to use them safely.

Main Types of Allergy Medicines

1. Antihistamines (tablets or syrups)
They block histamine, the chemical that causes sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes and hives.

• Newer, non-drowsy antihistamines are preferred for regular use, because they cause little or no sleepiness.
• Older antihistamines can cause drowsiness and slow reactions, so avoid them before driving or operating machinery.
• They work well for sneezing and itching, but are less effective for a blocked nose.

2. Steroid nasal sprays
These are often the most effective treatment for nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis), especially for a blocked nose.

• They act locally in the nose in very small doses, so they are safe for long-term use when prescribed.
• They take a few days to work fully, so they must be used regularly, not just when symptoms are bad.
• Correct technique matters: aim slightly outward, away from the centre of the nose.

3. Antihistamine nasal sprays
They act quickly on nasal symptoms and are sometimes combined with steroid nasal sprays for better control.

4. Anti-allergy eye drops
For itchy, red, watery eyes. Use only drops prescribed by your doctor, and avoid steroid eye drops without an eye specialist’s advice.

5. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (tablets)
Used in some patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma. In rare cases they can affect mood or sleep, so tell your doctor if you notice any unusual changes.

6. Inhalers
If allergy has affected the lungs and caused allergic asthma, inhalers are essential. Controller inhalers reduce airway inflammation, and reliever inhalers open the airways quickly during symptoms.

7. Saline nasal rinses
A simple, drug-free way to wash allergens and mucus out of the nose. They are safe and helpful alongside other treatment.

8. Short courses of oral steroids
Sometimes prescribed for a short period during a severe flare-up. They should never be taken repeatedly or long-term without medical supervision.

9. Adrenaline (epinephrine)
The life-saving emergency treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). People at risk may be advised to carry an auto-injector.

10. Advanced treatments

• Allergen immunotherapy (allergy vaccine): treats the cause by reducing sensitivity to specific allergens over time
• Biologic injections: for selected patients with severe allergic asthma or chronic hives not controlled by other treatments

Using Allergy Medicines Safely

• Take medicines as prescribed, regularly, not only when symptoms are severe
• Avoid decongestant nasal sprays for more than a few days, as they can cause rebound blockage
• Avoid repeated “allergy injections” (often steroids) for quick relief
• Don’t combine several allergy tablets without medical advice
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have other illnesses, or take other medicines
• Medicines control symptoms; avoiding triggers is equally important

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com