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How Long do Hay Fever Tablets Take to Work?

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Antihistamines, commonly used to treat hay fever, usually take around 30 minutes to work. Other hay fever tablets such as corticosteroids, can take up to a day to start providing relief.
It can be frustrating when battling hay fever symptoms and having uncertainty around when the medication will kick in. This article breaks down the timing for different types of hay fever medication, so that you know when to expect relief and how to get the most out of your meds.

 

Key Findings

  • Morning use is best for non-drowsy antihistamines, while sedating ones may be better taken at night to avoid daytime drowsiness. 
  • Take hay fever tablets at the same time each day, as it helps maintain steady levels in your system for continuous protection.  
  • Antihistamines work best when taken before exposure to allergens, so taking them in the morning or just before high pollen times can help prevent symptoms. 

How Quickly Common Hay Fever Medications Take Effect

Antihistamines

It takes around 30 minutes for most over-the-counter antihistamines to start working, but this can vary depending on the type and formulation.  

Some older generation antihistamines can work faster than this, within 15 to 30 minutes, but can come with side effects such as drowsiness. 

Fast-acting formulations such as Cetirizine and Loratadine work quickly to block histamine and offer rapid relief from sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.  

Keep in mind that regular use may help build up protection during peak pollen times, so timing and consistency are key. 

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids typically take longer to kick in than antihistamines because they work differently. They’re usually recommended for more severe allergies because they work to suppress the allergic process, while antihistamines focus on blocking the triggering chemical.  

Usually, most people won’t feel immediate relief; it can take a few days to weeks to feel the full effects of the medicine.  

We suggest the Beconase Nasal Spray or Avamys Nasal Spray, which work fast to clear nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose.  

Managing Asthma-like Symptoms with Allergy Tablets

Sometimes, underlying asthma can flare up when allergies hit. Alternative allergy medication may be recommended by your doctor, which can help to clear your airways.  

They start working within a few hours, but it can take a day or two to fully feel the effects.  

If you notice your airways feel increasingly blocked up, it may be time to speak to your doctor so that they can review your symptoms and tailor your allergy treatment plan.

What Determines How Quickly Medication Takes Effect

Every Experience is Different

Everyone’s experience with medication timing can be different, even when taking the same pill.  

The timelines we’ve discussed are a general rule of thumb; however, the speed at which pills take effect can vary greatly from person to person. 

How quickly or slowly your body metabolises the drug, your age and weight, digestive health, and even genetics, can all affect how quickly it begins to work.  

You should also consider whether the pill is taken on an empty stomach or with food, or at the same time as other medications, as this can also influence absorption.  

Medicine Formulation and Dosage

There are many different hay fever medicine formulations, from oral tablets, nasal sprays, and dissolvable antihistamines, which all work slightly differently and therefore, can vary in the time they take to kick in.  

Also, a higher dosage doesn’t necessarily mean it will work faster. Some medicines are designed to offer rapid relief, whilst others take longer as they target the allergy differently.  

Always follow the advice of the patient information leaflet and raise any concerns with your GP so that either the formulation or dosage can be adjusted accordingly. 

How to Get the Best Results

Optimum Time to Take Your Hay Fever Medication

Most people think that once the sneezing and itchy eyes start to creep in, it's time to take a hay fever tablet. Whilst this will offer adequate relief, you can maximise the powerful benefits of antihistamines by taking them before symptoms begin.  

You can start taking your tablets a few weeks before the season, or if you know the specific type of pollen you’re allergic to, you can be prepared and plan your medication in time for the release of the specific species.  

Using Additional Treatment

Sometimes a combination of treatments is needed to target the allergy. Under medical supervision, you may want to combine an oral antihistamine with a steroid nasal spray to maximise your protection and target congestion in the sinuses or sodium cromoglicate eye drops to relieve allergic conjunctivitis, a condition triggered by hay fever. 

If your symptoms are not budging, don’t continue to power through. Speak to one of our friendly hay fever health experts who can advise you on the best course of action so you can feel back to yourself in no time. 

Start Your Journey with Chemist Click

Take control of your hay fever symptoms with ease and confidence.  

Chemist Click offers a range of trusted hay fever treatments, including antihistamines like Cetirizine and Loratadine, as well as nasal sprays such as Beconase and steroid-based options like Mometasone.  

Whether you're looking for fast relief or long-term prevention, our expert team can help you find the most suitable treatment and guide you on the best timing to take your medication based on your specific symptoms and daily routine. With Chemist Click, you’ll receive professional support tailored to your needs, so you can breathe easier and enjoy your day. 

FAQs

How long do Hay Fever Tablets take to Work?

Most over-the-counter hay fever tablets begin to work within 30 minutes to an hour after taking them. However, it can take up to one to two hours to feel the full effects. This can vary depending on the type of antihistamine and how your body responds to it.  

How Much Antihistamine can I take in 24 Hours?

The typical dosage is one tablet a day for most over-the-counter antihistamines, but the strength and type of medication should always be considered.

Is it Better to take Antihistamines at Night or in the Morning?

This usually depends on the type of antihistamine you’re using. Typically, non-drowsy antihistamines can be taken in the morning, while older, sedating formulations may be better taken at night to avoid daytime sleepiness.  

Which Drugs Do Antihistamines Interact With?

Antacids for indigestion and heartburn, sedatives, antidepressants, and alcohol can all interact with antihistamines. This can increase side effects, including drowsiness or impaired concentration levels. Always check with a pharmacist or doctor, especially if you're taking other medications for anxiety, seizures, or blood pressure. 

Are Nasal Sprays Better Than Tablets for Hay Fever?

It depends on the type of symptoms you are trying to treat. Nasal sprays can be more effective for targeting specific hay fever symptoms like a blocked or runny nose, while tablets may be a better option for treating a wider range of symptoms.  

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Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.

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