Runny Nose, Sneezing and Watery Eyes: Cold & Allergy Treatment

Antihistamines relieve runny nose, sneezing, and watery and itchy eyes—all symptoms of colds and allergies. They do this by blocking the actions of histamine in the body. You can get antihistamines over the counter and by prescription. Prescription antihistamines work as well as over-the-counter antihistamines but are less likely to cause drowsiness. 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 (Chlor-Trimeton®) and brompheniramine (Dimetapp®) are the least likely to cause drowsiness and are best for daytime use. An antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) is the most sedating and best for nighttime use. Some antihistamines last 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.