ask your pharmacist

I have a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. What can I take?

Of all the ingredients used in over-the-counter cold and allergy products, antihistamines are the most likely to cause drowsiness. This may be a welcome effect at bedtime, but a problem during the day. Drowsiness varies by antihistamine and by person.

Over-the-counter antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine (brand name Chlor-Trimeton) and brompheniramine are the least likely to cause drowsiness and are best for daytime use. Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and clemastine (Tavist-1) are the most sedating and are best for nighttime use. Some antihistamines like Chlor-Trimeton 12 Hour and Tavist-1 last for up to 12 hours. If you've never used an antihistamine, try starting with a shorter-acting product like Chlor-Trimeton 4 Hour to see how your body responds.

If you don't get relief with an over-the-counter product, talk to your health care provider to find out if a prescription antihistamine could help. Claritin is now available as an over-the-counter medicine as well as a prescription antihistamine depending on the strength. Claritin is unlikely to cause drowsiness.

Sources:
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co., 1996.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. “Diagnosis and Management of Rhinitis: Complete Guidelines Of The Joint Task Force On Practice Parameters In Allergy, Asthma and Immunology”, Annals of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. 81 (1998).
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.

This answer prepared 6/2/2000.
This information updated 1/9/2007.