DIFFERENT TYPES OF ANTIHISTAMINES AND HOW TO USE THEM

Allergies affect millions of people each year, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and congestion.¹³⁶ Antihistamines are an effective way to manage these symptoms by blocking histamine, the chemical responsible for allergic reactions.¹³⁶ But not all antihistamines work the same way. Understanding the different types of antihistamines and how to use them can help you choose the right one for your needs.

You can find a wide range of trusted antihistamine products to help you manage allergy symptoms effectively. In this guide, we'll explore three trusted products: Allergex® Non Drowsy, Tellerge, and Nazene® Z.

HOW DO ANTIHISTAMINES WORK?

Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors in the body.¹³⁶ Histamine is released by the immune system in response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and insect bites.¹³⁶

The two main types of antihistamines:

• First-generation antihistamines (older, sedating)¹⁷⁸
• Second-generation antihistamines (newer, less likely to cause sedation)¹⁷⁸

Each type has specific benefits depending on the severity of symptoms and whether daytime or nighttime use is preferred.

Antihistamines can also come in different forms including tablets, topical creams or drops, nasal sprays, and syrups.

FIRST-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES: WHEN SEDATION IS NEEDED OR PREFERRED

First-generation antihistamines were the first allergy medications developed. While they are effective, they can cause drowsiness because they cross the blood-brain barrier and affect the central nervous system. These antihistamines provide relief for 4-6 hours.¹⁷⁸

However, if you need to stay alert during the day, a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine is a better choice.

SECOND-GENERATION ANTIHISTAMINES: MINIMAL SEDATION, ALL-DAY RELIEF

Second-generation antihistamines are designed to relieve allergy symptoms with minimally sedating effect. They provide long-lasting relief (up to 24 hours) and have fewer side effects.¹⁷⁸

1. Allergex® Non Drowsy Tablets (Loratadine)
   Allergex® Non Drowsy contains loratadine, a second-generation antihistamine that provides 24-hour relief from seasonal allergies.^4,5,68
    
   • Best for: Hay fever, pet allergies, dust allergies, and pollen allergies.⁶⁸
   • Adults: Available in tablet form.⁴
   • Children: Syrup available for children from 2 years old.⁵
   • Long-lasting: Relief for 24 hours.⁶⁸
2. Tellerge (Fexofenadine)
   Tellerge is a non-drowsy antihistamine containing fexofenadine hydrochloride, which is for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.¹⁵
    
   • Best for: Hay fever, acute or chronic hives.¹⁵
   • Available form: Tablets.¹⁵
   • Dosage: Once daily.¹⁵
   • Long-lasting: Relief for 24 hours.¹⁵
   Pro Tip: If you need all-day relief from allergy symptoms, Allergex® Non Drowsy and Tellerge are great choices - especially when you need to be alert and concentrate at work or school.

NASAL DECONGESTANTS: WHEN YOUR ALLERGIES CAUSE A STUFFY NOSE

Sometimes, allergies cause nasal congestion, making it difficult to breathe. While antihistamines reduce sneezing and itching, they don't directly clear a blocked nose.¹⁷⁹ Studies have shown that a nasal spray is your best option.¹⁷⁹

Nazene® Z (Oxymetazoline)
Nazene® Z Nasal Spray contains oxymetazoline, a decongestant that quickly reduces nasal swelling and congestion by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages.¹²

• Best for: Stuffy noses due to allergies, colds, or sinus infections.¹²
• Available form: Nasal spray.¹⁵
• Dosage: Spray in each nostril 1-3 times a day as required.¹²
• Long-lasting: Relief for 8-12 hours.⁶⁹

Pro Tip: If allergies leave you feeling blocked up, Nazene® Z can help clear nasal congestion fast - providing relief in less than 5 minutes.⁶⁹

HOW TO USE ANTIHISTAMINES CORRECTLY

Regardless of whether you choose a first-generation or second-generation antihistamine, it's important to use them correctly to get the best results.

• Be cautious of sedating antihistamines - First-generation antihistamines cause drowsiness and can impair driving.¹⁸⁰
• Use nasal sprays for targeted relief - If your allergies mainly affect your nose, specialised treatments like Nazene® Z Nasal Spray can be more effective.¹⁷⁹
• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.¹⁸⁰

WHICH ANTIHISTAMINE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Still unsure which antihistamine best suits your needs? Here's a quick comparison:

FINAL THOUGHTS

Antihistamines play a crucial role in managing allergies, but choosing the right one depends on your specific symptoms. Second-generation antihistamines like Allergex® Non Drowsy and Tellerge provide all-day relief without drowsiness,^4,5,15 while Nazene® Z clears nasal congestion fast.¹²

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to ensure it's right for you.