Nondrowsy allergy medications: 5 types

Drowsiness is a common side effect of certain allergy medications, especially antihistamines. These drugs help block the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system in response to allergens. 

Although antihistamines can effectively manage allergy symptoms, some of them can cause drowsiness due to their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and affect the central nervous system.

Several allergy medications are available that don’t cause drowsiness as a side effect. These include:

Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Fexofenadine, also known by its brand name Allegra, is a nondrowsy allergy medication available over-the-counter (OTC).

It works by blocking the action of histamines released by the immune system in response to allergens. This can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Fexofenadine can also alleviate symptoms without causing drowsiness or sedation.

This means you can go about your day-to-day activities without feeling sleepy, which makes it an ideal option for people who need relief from allergy symptoms while remaining alert and focused.

Adults and children over the age of 12 years should typically take 180 milligrams (mg) daily. But, the dosages may vary for each person, so it’s important to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Possible side effects of fexofenadine can include:

• headaches
• back pain
• nose bleeding
• dry mouth

Still, these side effects are generally mild and occur infrequently.

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Loratadine (Claritin)

Loratadine, also known by its brand name Claritin, is a nondrowsy allergy medication that relieves allergy symptoms. It works by blocking the action of histamines to alleviate symptoms and is available OTC.

Loratadine can effectively treat allergy symptoms without causing significant drowsiness. This makes it a good choice for people seeking relief from allergy symptoms without experiencing significant daytime sleepiness or impaired performance.

The recommended dosage of loratadine for adults and children ages 6 years and older is 10 mg once daily. However, the dosages may vary depending on age, weight, and medical condition. 

As with any medication, loratadine may cause side effects, including:

• headaches
• dry mouth
• fatigue (low energy)

Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

Cetirizine, commonly known by the brand name Zyrtec, is an effective nondrowsy allergy medication available OTC. The drug prevents histamine activity, which can help relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing and itching.

Unlike first-generation antihistamines, which often cause significant sedation, cetirizine is less likely to cause drowsiness, making it suitable for daytime use. 

The recommended dosage of cetirizine varies depending on your age and condition. The typical dose for adults and children ages 6 years and above is 5 or 10 mg once daily, depending on the severity of your symptoms. 

Some commonly reported side effects of cetirizine for those ages 6 and older include:

• drowsiness
• fatigue
• dry mouth

These side effects are generally mild and temporary.

Desloratadine (Clarinex)

Desloratadine (Clarinex) is a nondrowsy allergy medication. It effectively manages allergy symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis or chronic itchiness by stopping the effects of histamine in the body. 

It’s only available via a prescription from a doctor.

Desloratadine is nonsedating and can allow for an improved quality of life while managing allergies.

The recommended dosage of desloratadine for adults and children ages 12 years and older is 5 mg once daily. Still, healthcare professionals may recommend a reduced dosage for those with kidney or liver impairment.

Desloratadine is generally well tolerated, with minimal side effects reported. The most common side effects include:

• dry mouth
• headaches
• fatigue

Levocetrizine (Xyzal)

Levocetirizine (Xyzal) is a nondrowsy antihistamine that works by blocking the histamine receptors in the body, relieving allergy symptoms. It’s available OTC and via prescription from a doctor.

Unlike other antihistamines, levocetirizine has minimal sedative effects, allowing you to carry out your daily activities without feeling sleepy or sluggish.

By relieving various allergy symptoms, levocetirizine can also help improve overall comfort and quality of life.

The typical recommended dosage of levocetirizine for adults and children over the age of 12 is 5 mg once daily and 2.5 mg for those between the ages of 6–11.

It’s important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional or the packaging, as dosages may vary based on individual circumstances.

While generally well tolerated, levocetirizine may still cause some side effects. Common side effects include:

• dry mouth
• headaches
• fatigue

When to speak with a doctor

While nondrowsy allergy medications are generally safe and well tolerated, it can be beneficial to speak with a healthcare professional if:

• you experience severe or persistent allergy symptoms that don’t get better with over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications
• you have a preexisting medical condition or are taking other medications that may interact with allergy medications
• you are pregnant or nursing

A healthcare professional can put together a tailored treatment plan based on your condition, specific needs, and medical history.

Summary

Drowsiness is a common side effect of certain allergy medications, especially antihistamines. Several allergy medications available don’t cause drowsiness as a side effect.

Nondrowsy allergy medication options such as fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec) can effectively relieve allergy symptoms without interfering with your daily activities. 

Still, consider speaking with a healthcare professional if your symptoms worsen, you experience severe side effects, or have any concerns regarding using nondrowsy allergy medicines.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.