There are several types of medications that can reduce allergic reactions, depending on the specific type of allergy and its severity.
- Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, congestion, itching, and hives. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Examples of antihistamines include cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin).
- Nasal corticosteroids are a type of steroid spray that is applied to the nasal passages. They help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the nose, which can alleviate allergy symptoms like congestion and runny nose. Examples include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and budesonide (Rhinocort).
- Omalizumab (Xolair) is a medication that is specifically approved for reducing allergic reactions to multiple foods. It is a type of antibody that blocks the effects of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that is involved in allergic reactions.
- Other treatments for allergies include decongestants, leukotriene inhibitors, and immunotherapy. Decongestants help to reduce nasal congestion, leukotriene inhibitors block the production of chemicals that cause inflammation, and immunotherapy involves gradually exposing a person to the allergen to build up tolerance.
It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best treatment options for your specific allergies.
