Our Guide to The Different Treatments for Allergies and Hay Fever


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Table of Contents
- What Does an Antihistamine do?
- Two Types of Antihistamines:
- What is the Best Allergy Treatment to use?
- Speak to one of our Health Experts
What Does an Antihistamine do?
Antihistamines block histamine receptors, which are released by the body during an allergic reaction. This helps stop the following symptoms from taking hold:
- A runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Hives
- Itchy skin
Two Types of Antihistamines:
1. First-Generation Antihistamine
This is an older class of antihistamine, developed before newer, second-generation versions.
They’re effective at blocking H1 histamine receptors, which helps reduce allergy symptoms; however, this medicine can cross the blood-brain barrier, which means it can leave you feeling drowsy and less alert.
Like with all antihistamines, side effects are possible. These include:
- Dry mouth
- Increased heart rate
- Constipation
- Trouble urinating
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Headaches
- Mucous thickening
- Lowered blood pressure
First-generation antihistamines work fast and are effective for short-term symptom relief. Aside from allergies, they’re also used for:
- Motion sickness and nausea
- Insomnia
- Anxiety (in some cases)
- Itching and skin reactions
If you need to stay alert, this may not be the best option as a daily antihistamine. They can also interact with alcohol and other sedatives.
2. Second-Generation Antihistamine
Second-generation antihistamines are a newer class of allergy medications designed to relieve symptoms without causing drowsiness. They are usually referred to as a non-drowsy antihistamine.
Just like first-generation antihistamines, they block H1 histamine receptors, but don’t easily cross the blood-brain barrier, making them ideal for daytime use.
They treat a range of allergies, including:
- Hay fever
- Hives
- Food allergies
- Dust mites
- Tree pollen
- Insect bites
- Skin rashes
- Reactions to medications
These antihistamines can be a good option for consistent and preventative management as they’re safe for treating chronic allergies.
Some of the reported side effects include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
Side effects are typically mild; however, some second-generation antihistamines can cause drowsiness.
If you also need to treat non-allergic symptoms, such as motion sickness or insomnia, a first-generation antihistamine may be better suited.
What is the Best Allergy Treatment to use?
Allergy problem | Suitable treatment | Reason |
Unexpected allergy |
Acrivastine (non-drowsy) |
Works quickly. |
Occasional allergy (under seven days, pet reaction) |
Loratadine or Fexofenadine if you're around pets for a few days. Acrivastine (non-drowsy) |
Works fast, but can take time to feel the full effects with some drowsiness possible. |
Occasional allergy (over seven days) | Loratadine, Cetirizine or Fexofenadine | Easy to take and effective. |
Chronic allergy (all-year-round) |
Loratadine, Cetirizine or Fexofenadine Fexofenadine is less likely to cause drowsiness |
Safe to take for chronic allergies. |
Tried oral antihistamines without success |
Nasal spray or eye drops in addition and/or A stronger antihistamine, such as Xyzal or Desloratadine |
Likely you'll need a tailored allergy treatment plan, for example, taking a low-strength antihistamine tablet and adding nasal spray/eye drops, or taking a stronger antihistamine. |
Seasonal or year-round allergy that does not respond, interrupting your day-to-day activities |
Specialist allergy medication specific for the type of allergen (such as Grazax for grass pollen or Acarizax for dust mites) A skin prick test is required, and use can only be started by an allergy specialist or immunologist. |
Immunotherapy treats the cause of the allergy, while traditional antihistamines treat the symptoms. |
Speak to one of our Health Experts
Our experienced healthcare team and approved prescribers are here to help you take control of your hay fever and allergy symptoms.
Get expert advice on the most effective allergy treatments, tailored to your needs, all from the comfort of your home. With a simple online consultation and next-day delivery available on most medications, relief is just a few clicks away. Fast, discreet, and professional support when you need it most.
Sources
- Allergy.org.uk (n.d). About Allergy. Retrieved 14th May 2025, from: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/
- Allergy.org.uk (n.d). Allergy Statistics and Figures. Retrieved 14th May 2025, from: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/statistics-and-figures/
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.