Allergy Relief Medications

An allergy is an exaggerated immune response or reaction to substances that are generally not harmful. Allergy is caused by an oversensitive immune system, which leads to a misdirected immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses. In contrast, an allergic reaction is when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.

When an allergen enters the body of a person with a sensitized immune system, histamine and other chemicals are released by certain cells. This causes itching, swelling, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives, rashes, and other symptoms. Most people have symptoms that cause discomfort without being life threatening. A few people have life threatening reactions (called anaphylaxis).

Common allergens include those that contact the skin, breathing passages, or the surface of the eye (such as pollen). Allergic reactions can be caused by food, drugs, insect bites, jewelry, cosmetics. Some people have allergic type reactions to hot or cold temperatures, sunlight. Both hereditary and environmental factors have been found to play a role.

The best "treatment" is to avoid what causes your allergies in the first place. It may be impossible to completely avoid everything you are allergic to, but you can often take steps to reduce your exposure. This is especially important for food and drug allergies.

The most appropriate medication depends on the type and severity of symptoms. Price-RX.com offers you price comparison of the following prescription medicationss to relieve the symptoms of allergies:

Antihistamines

The medicines most commonly used to relieve the symptoms of allergies are antihistamines. Antihistamines are used to relieve or prevent the symptoms of hay fever and other types of allergy. They work by preventing the effects of a substance called histamine, which is produced by the body. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Also, in some persons histamine can close up the bronchial tubes (air passages of the lungs) and make breathing difficult.

• Allegra D
• Antivert
• Atarax
• Claritin D
• Zyrtec

Nasal corticosteroids

When antihistamines cannot control allergy symptoms, a corticosteroids can help. Nasal corticosteroids are cortisone-like medicines. They belong to the family of medicines called steroids. These medications are sprayed or inhaled into the nose to help relieve the stuffy nose, irritation, and discomfort of hay fever, other allergies, and other nasal problems. These medications are also used to prevent nasal polyps from growing back after they have been removed by surgery.

• Flonase

Leukotriene inhibitors

Leukotrienes are powerful chemical substances produced by the body. They promote the inflammatory response caused by exposure to allergens. Leukotriene inhibitors block the action or production of these chemicals, thereby reducing inflammation. Leukotrienes are available with a prescription as tablets, chewable tablets, and oral granules. Leukotrienes are typically well tolerated and side effects are similar to those of patients taking a placebo (sugar pill). Reports of headache, earache, sore throat, and respiratory infections have been noted. Montelukast (Singulair) is a prescription medicine approved to help control asthma and to help relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

• Singulair