Which Product Delivers the Best Allergy Relief? If going outside leads to itchy, watery eyes or being around a cat has you sneezing, you are not alone. The CDC reports that a quarter of all adults in the United States - and nearly a fifth of the children - suffer from a seasonal allergy. The Allergy & Asthma Network reports that environmental allergies, which includes pets and poor air quality, has led to more than 4 million missed work days per year. Half of those dealing with allergies say it impacts their daily quality of life.
Best Option
Non-drowsy Claritin is a product of Bayer Healthcare and has offered relief for allergy sufferers since it was first introduced for prescriptions in the United States in 1993. It became an over-the-counter (OTC) product in 2002.
Affordable option for allergy relief
Claritin products come in a variety of forms, dosages, and even flavors to make it easier for you to fight the allergies you have. The company offers its medication in tablets, RediTabs (which instantly dissolve in your mouth), liquid-filled capsules, chewables, and liquid medication. A bottle of 100 tablets for indoor and outdoor allergies is sold for $37.49. Since the tablet provides 24 hours of symptom relief, this bottle should last more than three months, making it an affordable option. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping.
Works within 3 hours, for 24 hours
Claritin says that for most people, their product begins working within three hours after taking it, and it works for up to 24 hours.
Covers the common allergens
For those who experience one of the 200 most common airborne allergies - such as pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and dust mites - Claritin will provide effective relief.
A reliable antihistamine to relieve itchy eyes, nose, and throat, as well as sneezy and runny nose, Claritin's active ingredient is loratadine in most of its products.
Be aware of these ingredients or side effects
The tablets contain lactose monohydrate, so beware if you have a milk allergy. Only one dose should be taken at a time or you may experience drowsiness. Those with liver or kidney disease should ask a doctor prior to taking Claritin. Additionally women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it.
Children's products offered
There are multiple options of Claritin available for children with allergies, depending on their age and preferred format of medication. From chewables and syrups, to tablets and liquids, relief is available for child allergy sufferers ages 2-12 and older. The original tablet is indicated for ages 6 and older.
Proven most powerful, non-drowsy option
Claritin says it is the #1 doctor-recommended non-drowsy oral OTC allergy brand on the market, and it's FDA approved. In head-to-head efficacy studies against other oral antihistamines with a single ingredient, Claritin proved to be the most powerful, providing 24-hour, non-drowsy allergy relief.
60-day money-back guarantee
Bayer Healthcare offers an any-reason, 60-day satisfaction guarantee on its products purchased from authorized sellers. A dated receipt is required to process the refund and must be submitted within 60 days of the purchase date.
Consistently rated high
Parent company Bayer Healthcare is not accredited by BBB and has a "B+" rating for failure to respond to complaints against the business, though none are related to this medication. Reviews for this allergy remedy on various retail platforms are mixed. On some, Claritin is highly rated, receiving 4.4-4.8 out of 5 stars. One positive reviewer noted she can "always count on Claritin to do what it's supposed to do" while another said the small pills were easy to swallow and it "makes pollen season bearable." Side effects such as knee pain, thinning hair, vertigo, and migraines were listed as the reasons for the poor ratings from customers. RxList lists some of those as possible side effects so, as with any medication you take, we recommend reading all warnings and possible side effects and checking with your physician.
Our top pick once again
Claritin consistently ranks high among those who have used it due to the reliable relief it provides. When considering its relatively mild possible side effects and longevity in the market, Claritin is our top pick for allergy medication.
Great
Xyzal is made by Sanofi, a Certified B Corp., and was approved by the FDA for prescription sales in 2007. The drug became available over-the-counter in 2017, with its children's formula following in 2023.
Tablets at average price
Xyzal comes in tablet-form only for adults ages 12-64 (with children's formula offered in liquid). Since the kidneys of older adults may not work as well and this drug warns against taking it if you have kidney issues, it is not recommended for those over age 64. A bottle of 80 tablets is sold for $27.15, making it a value-priced remedy for allergy woes.
Since the tablet provides 24 hours of symptom relief, this bottle should last more than two months if you take a full dose each time (instructions allow for a half-dose as well). Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping.
Fastest relief option
Xyzal offers rapid relief from allergies, saying it begins providing relief 45 minutes to one hour after taking it (much faster than others we have seen). Since it may make you sleepy, it is suggested to be taken at night so it can relieve allergy symptoms while you sleep. This way, says Xyzal, you will sleep better and wake refreshed for a more productive day. It claims to be "24 hours of continuous adult allergy relief that won't fade" and that it's just as effective near the end of the dosage as it was when taken. According to Xyzal, it lasts up to six times longer than Benadryl and offers the same relief as Zyrtec at "nearly half the pill size."
Fight indoor/outdoor allergies with full or half dose
This allergy remedy relieves sneezing, itchy eyes, nose, and throat, as well as watery eyes and runny nose, with its oral antihistamine. Xyzal targets allergies to pet dander, mold, pollen, and other indoor and outdoor triggers. The active ingredient in it is levocetirizine dihydrochloride. The tablets, which are scored, may be halved to provide relief for less severe symptoms.
You'll probably want to take before bed
Drowsiness may occur, so the makers warn that it should be taken at night. The tablets contain lactose monohydrate, so beware if you have a milk allergy. Those with kidney disease should ask a doctor prior to taking Xyzal. Additionally women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it.
Liquid available for children's dose
Xyzal offers a 24-hour allergy liquid for children in two flavors, for children ages 2-11. Children ages 6-11 may take half a tablet of the regular Xyzal.
Allergist recommended
According to the brand, Xyzal is recommended by allergists more than Claritin and Benadryl combined.
Relief is guaranteed
The company stands behind its "all-night, all-day relief" claim with a money-back guarantee. Xyzal says customers have 30 days to request the refund with the receipt and the reason why they were unsatisfied with the product.
Reviews are happy with the relief received
Parent company Sanofi is neither accredited nor rated by BBB, but reviewers across multiple platforms rated Xyzal 4.6-4.8 out of 5 stars. One positive reviewer noted that this medicine was a "wonder drug" for her when others didn't do anything to relieve her allergies. Another said it's the first to which she did not develop an immunity (always a good thing). Another site had the drug rated 3.8 out of 5. Side effects such as dizziness, depression, heartburn, dry mouth, urge to urinate and rash were listed as the reasons for the poor ratings from customers. If you're concerned about any of those potential side effects, touch base with your PCP before starting Allegra.
Best option if you'd also like a little help falling asleep
If you are able to remember to take the medication nightly, Xyzal is your best option. Its consistent effectiveness with low-risk side effects put it near the top of our list.
Very Good
Boasting that it is a "No-Brainer," Allegra says its 24-hour allergy medication quickly provides non-drowsy relief. Introduced as a prescription drug in 1996, it later became available over-the-counter (OTC) in 2011. Made by Sanofi, a Certified B Corp., Allegra claims to be the #1 allergist-recommended, non-drowsy brand.
Remain alert with lactose-free allergy med
Allegra works differently because it was created to provide effective relief without causing drowsiness. The active ingredient fexofenadine was engineered to remain outside of the central nervous system so it did not affect alertness. Allegra provides relief from indoor and outdoor triggers such as pollen, ragweed, grass, trees, dust, pet dander, and mold. Allegra says its users will remain "clear-headed and alert" while getting allergy relief from its non-drowsy formula. As a bonus, Allegra is lactose-free (unlike some of the other OTC medications we have seen).
Tablets priced a little higher per dose
The Allegra 24-hour non-drowsy tablet is available in a 70-tablet bottle for $30.34.
Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping.
Fast-working formula
This oral antihistamine begins working in an hour (we like that!) and relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes, and itchy nose and throat for up to 24 hours. Allegra claims to work twice as fast as Claritin and is long-lasting, unlike Benadryl. Additionally, many different forms of Allegra are available to address specific needs. The original tablet is available in a lower-dose 12-hour formula. Gel-coated tablets are offered in 24-hour formula, while there are tablets to combat hives or provide a nasal decongestant.
Children's choices for allergy relief
A 12-hour children's formula of Allegra is available in berry-flavored liquid or in orange cream dissolving tabs for ages 2-11.
Not suitable for everyone
This product is recommended for ages 12 and older. Since the kidneys of older adults may not work as well and this drug warns against taking it if you have kidney issues, it is not recommended for those over age 64. Those with kidney disease should ask a doctor prior to taking Allegra. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it. It is not to be taken with aluminum or magnesium antacids, and you should avoid fruit juices.
"Feel the Difference" guarantee
The company offers a money-back guarantee if you don't "feel the difference" Allegra promises. You would need to submit a receipt or packing slip for online orders, showing the purchase date and retailer's name. It must be made within 30 days of purchase.
Highly ranked by reviewers
Parent company Sanofi is not accredited nor rated by BBB, but across retail platforms, Allegra has been ranked 4.7-4.8 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews called it "life-changing," loving the quick relief from allergy symptoms and the fact that it did not make them drowsy. Others noted the tablets are easy to swallow and long-lasting. Some said they felt the dosage wearing off after 12 to 20 hours. Negative reviews cited side effects such as panic attacks, swollen hands and feet, tingling in arms, dehydration, dry mouth, and joint pain. Since those are known side effects (according to RxLIst), check with your doctor before starting Allegra if you have concerns.
A solid option
While its slightly higher cost and concerns for older people keep it from our top spot, Allegra has proven itself to be an effective, non-drowsy antihistamine for quickly dealing with allergy symptoms. We offer it as a solid option for your consideration.
Very Good
Flonase provides non-drowsy, long-lasting allergy relief in a nasal spray. Introduced for prescriptions in 1994, this #1 doctor-recommended allergy relief brand became available OTC in 2014.
Good for seasonal allergies
The Flonase formula provides relief from indoor and outdoor allergens, as well as eye and nasal symptoms, and animal irritants. This includes mold, dust, pollen, and pet dander. Flonase uses fluticasone to block molecules that cause itching and mucus production. All indications show that Flonase is best suited for seasonal allergies, since taking this daily for more than six months is not recommended without a doctor's supervision. Flonase products block six allergic substances (histamine as well as prostaglandins, cytokine, tryptases, chemokine, and leukotrienes), which enter the body through the nose and trigger a response from the immune system. Phenylethyl alcohol is one of the inactive ingredients.
Slow to provide relief at first
Flonase gives 24-hour relief but may not start providing relief for 12 hours or more. According to the company, to achieve full effectiveness and best manage allergy symptoms, take it daily when allergy symptoms start. It typically takes three to four days of continued use to offer relief. Flonase is different in that it offers nasal congestion relief in its base formula, as well as relieving itchy nose and eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Relief in spray or other formats
A twin pack of allergy relief nasal spray is sold for $42.95, and most customers will qualify for free shipping. Each bottle contains 144 sprays, with a recommended dosage for ages 12 and older of two sprays per nostril per day for the first week, then it may be reduced to one to two per nostril per day. When taken as directed, the cost ranges between one of the lowest allergy medications we've seen to above average (depending on how many daily sprays you require). Additionally, there is another version of this medication called Sensimist which distributes the relief in a fine, scent-free mist. For those needing relief in a different format, the brand also offers a headache and allergy relief caplet and nighttime allergy relief tablet.
Keep this in mind before taking Flonase
Floanse is not for children under 4, and it may react with some medications for HIV, asthma, allergies, rashes, and fungal infections. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it. Unlike many of the other medication options on our list, Flonase does not have a warning about kidneys. It also says it is non-addictive.
Children may take but consider the warning
The product label says it's for children 4 and up, but it also warns the growth rate of some children may be slower while using Flonase. A separate children's version is also offered in regular and Sensimist.
Offers 100% money-back guarantee to try its product
There is a 45-day satisfaction guarantee offered on Flonase. A proof of purchase and the physical UPC code is required to claim the guarantee.
Best reviews of a nasal spray
Parent company GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare is not accredited by BBB, but it has an "A-" rating. Across retail platforms, Flonase has earned 4.7-4.8 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews call it "a game-changer for my allergies" and "works exactly as I need it to, without fail." Negative reviews cited side effects such as anxiety and panic attacks, back pain, insomnia, weight gain, nose bleeds, headaches, issues with vision, nausea, and vomiting. Will those be a problem for you? It's hard to say, but have a conversation with your physician if any of those side effects give you pause (if you already have anxiety or vision issues).
This is the nasal spray option to try
If you are going to try a nasal spray for your allergy relief, Flonase is our recommendation. It has the least concerning side effects (though there still are some to keep in mind) and earned the best reviews from users. It's not going to be as effective as a broader oral antihistamine, but Flonase does an excellent job at what it promises.
Good
Genexa Multi-Symptom Allergy Care is a homeopathic, non-drowsy "clean medicine" used to combat respiratory allergies. Their products are 100% USDA certified biobased products. The company is a Certified B Corporation, Sustainable Forestry Initiative certified, and Non-GMO Project certified, and a portion of your Genexa purchase is given to charitable community organizations. Genexa was founded in 2014, and its Allergy Care first became available on the market in 2016.
Users claim quick relief
Genexa relieves irritated eyes, runny nose, sinus pressure, sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy throat and nose. A dose lasts six to eight hours. One reviewer says she experiences relief within half an hour of taking the tablet, while another said it worked "immediately."
Organic, vegan option for allergies
As a "clean medicine," Genexa products are made with active ingredients, leaving out artificial fillers. They are certified gluten-free, certified vegan, and are free of common allergens. Genexa Allergy Care contains these Organic HPUS (Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States) ingredients: Allium cepa 12X, Ambrosia artemisiifolia 12X, Arundo mauritanica 12X, Dulcamara 12X, Euphrasia officinalis 12X, Nux vomica 12X, Ranunculus bulbosus 12X, Sabadilla 12X, Sinapis nigra 12X, Sticta pulmonaria 12X, and Wyethia helenioides 12X. Together, these homeopathic ingredients relieve symptoms related to hay fever and other respiratory allergies.
Chewable tablets cost a little more
In an acai berry-flavored, chewable tablet, Genexa is sold in a bottle of 60 tablets for $16.99. Adults 12 and older are recommended to take two tablets at the onset of symptoms and then "as needed", which means a bottle could last for more than a month, depending on how often it is taken. This is different from some options which require a daily dosage to be effective. Subscriptions are offered to save 10% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping.
Children's options offered
Children ages 3-11 are to take one tablet of the regular Genexa Allergy Care, though a Kids' Allergy Care is also available, as is Kids' Allergy agave syrup.
Side effects not reported
There are no known side effects from Genexa's homeopathic allergy relief tablets. Unlike many of the other allergy options, Genexa does not have a warning about kidneys. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it.
Physician-formulated, natural option
Genexa was the first medicine company with a line of USDA Certified Organic homeopathic products. Their products are physician formulated. But, as with many natural products, their claims are not evaluated by the FDA.
Guaranteed or your money back
There is a 100% money-back guarantee offered on Genexa's products when claimed within 45 days of purchasing the product, following the instructions on their website.
Company and product highly rated
Genexa is not accredited by the BBB but has earned an "A+" rating, with no complaints. Across retail platforms, Genexa has earned a respectable 4.4-4.5 out of 5 stars. Positive reviewers love the flavor, call it very effective, a "miracle," and "game changer." On the other hand, some reviewers said it made them drowsy or did not work for them.
Best all-natural option
If you want to avoid the harsh side effects and the filler ingredients found in some drugs, Genexa is our recommendation for you. With its high user ratings and take-as-needed approach, it is the best option we found. However, until it has the evidential support behind it that the more well-known allergy products do, we rank it just above average.
Average
Providing a generic antihistamine, Amazon Basic Care Allergy offers relief using the same active ingredient as Allegra 24-hour. This is part of the Basic Care line launched in 2018 made by private-label manufacturer Perrigo.
A single, 24-hour dose does it
Amazon Basic Care Allergy claims to offer fast, non-drowsy relief of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms for 24 hours (though no solid times given to say just how fast).
Relieve your symptoms but watch for lactose and alcohol
With the active ingredient fexofenadine hydrochloride, Amazon Basic Care Allergy offers multi-symptom relief of itchy nose or throat, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. The medication also includes lactose and alcohol, but it is gluten-free.
Cheapest option available on our list
Amazon Basic Care Allergy comes in a bottle of 150 tablets for $27.86, making it by far the least expensive option per dose that we've reviewed. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping.
Be aware before you take it
This medication is recommended for ages 12 and older. However, it's not recommended for anyone with kidney issues, and those over 64 may want to skip this allergy medication unless it's been approved by their doctor. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it. It is not to be taken with aluminum or magnesium antacids, and you should avoid fruit juices.
Pleased users but concerns about inactive ingredients
Perrigo is not accredited by BBB but has earned an "A-" rating. Across retail review platforms, Amazon Basic Care Allergy rates 4.7 out of 5 stars. Positive reviewers note that it works "just as well as the name brand." Negative comments said the opposite, pointing to the balance of inactive ingredients being different from Allegra's formula.
Good dupe but has some downsides
While this relatively new-to-market option has yet to fully prove its effectiveness, initial user reviews have us hopeful. However, the addition of filler ingredients - including lactose not in the Allegra formula - keep us from ranking Amazon Basic Care Allergy any higher than average.
Average
Manufactured by Native Remedies, AllergiClear-S is a non-GMO herbal supplement for the promotion of respiratory, skin, and immune system health during allergy season. Nature Remedies was started in 2002 to deliver safe products which were free of the side effects found in prescription drugs. Their products are cruelty-free, using sustainably, organically farmed or ethically wild-crafted ingredients and are free of fillers. AllergiClear-S has been available since 2007.
Non-GMO herbal ingredients to target symptoms
AllergiClear-S supports long-term respiratory health, promotes skin integrity, and soothes mucous membranes for clear bronchial passages. The manufacturer says it is non-addictive and safe for supporting healthy sinuses, maintaining clear eyes, and keeping histamine levels in a normal range. This natural product is gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegetarian, as well as Kosher certified. The AllergiClear-S capsule contains quercetin dihydrate, eyebright herb, nettle leaf, and bromelain - all herbal products for fighting histamines and inflammation. Additionally, AllergiClear-M, which is designed for quick relief of symptoms, contains these HPUS (Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States) ingredients: Adrenalinum 7C, Calcarea fluorica 8X, Calcarea phosphorica 8X, Histaminum hydrochloricum 7C, Kali muriaticum 8X, Natrum muriticum 8X, and Silicea 8X. These ingredients should dry up mucus, reduce stuffiness, alleviate dry and itchy skin, relieve red, swollen, and burning eyes, soothe irritated and sore throats, and relieve runny noses and watery eyes. The medication is meant to support long-term health and comfort while balancing the body's histamine response over time. This non-addictive formula is also free from ingredients which may lead to drowsiness.
Children's dosage offered
The child's dose is half a capsule, twice daily.
Twice daily dosage to be effective
A 90-capsule bottle of non-drowsy AllergiClear-S is sold for $35.99. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping. The adult dosage is one capsule, twice daily, which means a bottle will last for six weeks (making it one of the more expensive options we've seen). Formulated to work with AllergiClear-M, it is available in a combo pack for $68.60. Those drops will last approximately 24-40 days depending on frequency of use and cost $40.24 when purchased alone.
Not a quick fix
The supplement is suggested to be taken twice daily. Also, AllergiClear-S says if it is taken regularly, it can help allergy sufferers enjoy the outdoors once again. Results are gradual and will vary by individual. The company notes that some users "notice a big difference" within a month, while it may take longer for others. In fact, the "S" in the product's name indicates that it is created to address systemic body functioning and long-term health. The products with "M" after them are homeopathic medicines for fast-acting symptomatic relief. The two types of products are intended to work together to support holistic health. The AllergiClear-M liquid drops are designed for temporary relief of allergy and hay fever symptoms and will typically begin working within days.
Not many warnings
Unlike many of the other allergy options, AllergiClear-S does not have a warning about kidneys. Additionally, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it. It should be noted that one inactive ingredient in AllergiClear-M is USP grain alcohol.
Quality monitored by specialists
As with most herbal supplements, AllergiClear-S is not evaluated by the FDA, though it is manufactured in an FDA-registered, cGMP compliant facility under the supervision of herbalists, naturopaths, homeopaths, and pharmacists.
Best guarantee available
Native Remedies offers a one-year unconditional money-back guarantee on AllergiClear-S. They ask that you try the product for 30 days and if you are not completely satisfied for any reason, you can return the product to them for a complete refund within a year (less shipping fees). By far, this is the best guarantee we've seen on allergy remedies.
Reviews are solid
As part of the larger Silver Star Brands Company, Native Remedies is BBB accredited and has an "A+" rating. On Trustpilot, Native Remedies has earned 4 out of 5 stars, with positive reviews citing excellent customer service and amazing all-natural product options (we like to see that!). Across retail platforms, AllergiClear-S has earned 4.2 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews called it "a lifesaver" and note that it works on light allergies. One said it helped with her shortness of breath reaction to allergies. Negative reviews say it caused sneezing or did not work at all. AllergiClear-M has earned 4.3 out of 5 stars, though someone who had severe allergies complained it did not help her much. The number of reviews on the products is much lower than for other allergy products we received, but we see these results as a promising start for a natural option.
More reviews needed to recommend
While AllergiClear-S appears to be a promising alternative to drug options for those who deal with long-term allergy symptoms, more reviews are needed before we can fully recommend the product. Its high price tag makes us hesitant, though when combined with the excellent guarantee, it may be worth a try if you'd prefer an all-natural allergy relief option.
Fair
Non-drowsy Nasacort relieves symptoms of nasal allergies. It is manufactured by Sanofi, a Certified B Corp. and was approved by the FDA for over the counter (OTC) sales in 2014. Nasacort contains the #1 doctor-recommended type of medicine for relieving nasal allergy congestion.
Relieves nasal congestion for hay fever
Triamcinolone acetonide is the active ingredient in Nasacort, which temporarily relieves nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose, resulting from hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies to both indoor and outdoor allergens, including ragweed. It works at the source to relieve symptoms by blocking the chemical responses that cause nasal allergy symptoms (as an anti-inflammatory). Therefore, Nasonex claims it's more effective at relieving nasal congestion than an oral antihistamine, without a harsh taste or smell. In fact, it claims to be significantly more effective than Claritin in the first week of use.
Low-priced spray
Available in a nasal spray, Nasacort offers relief from year-round nasal allergy symptoms in a scent-free mist. The twin pack of the alcohol-free product provides 240 sprays (approximately 30-60 doses per bottle) for $23.55. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping. The recommended dosage for ages 12 and older is two sprays per nostril per day to start, then one spray to maintain once symptoms improve. When taken this way, it puts the cost in the low end of what we've seen in allergy relief medicines.
Delayed relief
While some symptoms may get better as soon as the first day of use, Nasacort could take up to a week of daily use to feel the most symptom relief. It provides 24-hour coveage and is not habit-forming, though the manufacturer advises that it be used daily for best results.
Vision changes, nosebleeds, and other concerns
The package warns users to stop using it if it causes changes in vision or severe or frequent nosebleeds. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it. While it says it's safe to use with blood pressure medicine, it is recommended to be discussed with your doctor first. In addition, if you have or had cataracts, you should ask a doctor before using Nasacort.
Children's dose offers concerning side effect
A child's dose for ages 2-12 is one spray per day into each nostril, but it also warns the growth rate of some children may be slower while using Nasacort.
Money-back guarantee
If you aren't completely satisfied, Nasacort offers a money-back guarantee with receipt or packing slip. It must be made within 30 days of purchase.
Mostly positive reviews but alarming side effects experienced
Parent company Sanofi is not accredited nor rated by BBB, and yet across retail platforms, users rank Nasacort 4.6-4.7 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews say that Nasacort makes allergies manageable, calling it "a miracle relief," easy to use, allowing them to "breathe easily again," with no smell and without drying out the nose as other sprays have done. Negative reviewers mentioned difficulty in using the spray bottle for arthritic allergy sufferers. Side effects mentioned by negative reviews include anxiety, panic attacks, heart palpitations, hair loss, insomnia, irritability, cataracts, and loss of smell. This is definitely an allergy medication we don't recommend that you start using before checking in with your primary care physician.
Not the best option
At first, it appears the Nasonex may be a worthy option. However, when side effects are taken into consideration, we rank this allergy option below average. Could Nasacort still be right for you? Maybe, but it's a risky remedy to try without talking to your doctor first.
Weak
Providing fast and effective relief from allergy symptoms, ZYRTEC was first available as a prescription from Johnson & Johnson in 1995. It became available over the counter (OTC) in 2008.
Antihistamine for airborne allergies
ZYRTEC is effective for combating respiratory nuisances, including both indoor (dust, mold, and pet dander) and outdoor allergens (pollen, grass, and others). It contains cetirizine HCL, an antihistamine.
Allergist and pediatrician recommended
ZYRTEC is the #1 allergist-recommended brand for OTC oral antihistamine symptoms, as well as the top choice of pediatricians for children with allergies.
There's an app for that
AllergyCast Pollen Forecast and Allergy Symptom Tracker App is a free app available from ZYRTEC to keep you aware of the worst days for allergies, while learning tips and exploring an interactive map. It is available in both Android and iOS formats.
Expensive option
ZYRTEC comes in a citrus-flavored, dissolve tab format. It costs $18.77 for 24 tablets - less than a month's supply if taken daily - making it one of the higher-priced options available. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping. Additionally, this medication is available in tablet, liquid gel, liquid, and chewable formats.
Children's options abound
A children's liquid is available, as well as a chewable tablet and a dissolve tablet.
Fast relief, but not recommended for all ages
One ZYRTEC dissolve tab provides 24-hour relief from sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat. Allergy sufferers should expect to experience relief within an hour of taking the medication. The company says their medicine "works twice as hard when you take them again the next day." The dissolve tabs are suitable for ages 6-64. Adults age 65 and older are not recommended to take this medication since the kidneys of older adults may not work as well.
May cause drowsiness
Drowsiness is a possible side effect of ZYRTEC, so you should not take it with alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers. Those with liver or kidney disease should ask a doctor prior to taking ZYRTEC. Additionally women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it.
Alarming reviews mention unlisted side effects
Parent company Johnson & Johnson isn't accredited by BBB and has an "F" rating for failure to respond to complaints, as well as government action against the business. The majority of the complaints are about customer service issues for various products distributed by the health and wellness giant (extremely disappointing coming from a company that has been in business for over a century). Across retail review platforms, ZYRTEC has earned 4.7 out of 5 stars. Positive reviewers note the dissolvable tabs have an awesome taste, work quickly, and are effective in fighting their allergies. Oddly, negative reviews say the tabs taste gross and bitter, and some found the blister packs difficult to use. Negative reviews cited side effects such as depression, weight gain, heart palpitations, bloating, and migraines. Some who stopped taking it noticed an uncontrollable itching all over their bodies (!). RxList only lists a few possible side effects - and none of these are mentioned (we find that a bit troublesome as the complaints were numerous). This is one allergy relief product where we absolutely insist that you consider all warnings and possible side effects, and get approval from your physician before starting it.
Look elsewhere
Positive reviews from those who use the product keep us from writing ZYRTEC off completely, but with so many other options available, we recommend trying a different allergy option with less possible side effects.
Poor
Nasonex is a nasal spray steroid which works by preventing the release of substances which cause inflammation as a result of allergies. It was first released as a prescription in 1997, becoming available for over-the-counter (OTC) use in 2022.
Covers airborne allergies
Mometasone furoate is the active ingredient in Nasonex, which works as an anti-inflammatory medicine to block the release of substances which can cause allergy symptoms. It provides relief for indoor, outdoor, and seasonal allergy symptoms. It relieves nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose.
Relief may take half a day
This 24-hour allergy product is scent-free and works by delivering non-drowsy medication to the irritated nasal passages. Nasonex may provide relief within 12 hours; users should feel the full effects of the medication after several days of regular use.
Double daily spray results in high-cost dosage
Nasonex offers non-drowsy allergy and congestion relief in a nasal spray, selling a bottle with 120 sprays for $23.45. Subscriptions are offered to save 5% or more, and most customers will qualify for free shipping. The recommended dosage for ages 12 and older is two sprays per nostril per day. When taken this way, it puts the cost in the high end of what we've seen in allergy relief medicines: 8 sprays a day only gives you about 15 doses per bottle (you do the math).
User beware
Nasonex says long-term use of nasal and inhaled corticosteroids may increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts. (This warning is enough to make us think twice before taking it.) The active ingredient may lower blood cells which help the body fight infections. If you use Nasonex and your allergy symptoms don't improve within a week - or you have severe facial pain or thick nasal discharge - contact a doctor. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to ask a health professional prior to taking it.
Children's option also comes with an ominous warning
Children's Nasonex is offered for ages 2-11, though the company says children should use this product for the "shortest amount of time necessary to achieve symptom relief."
Concerning side effects and lower reviews than other brands
Parent company Perrigo is not accredited by BBB but has earned an "A-" rating. Across user platforms, Nasonex has earned 4.0-4.6 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews rave that it's an effective product with the best results. One appreciated that it was an easy-to-use, very fine spray. Negative reviewers said it did not help with their allergies while others complained of side effects such as leg aches, nose bleeds, anxiety, heart palpitations, and eye pressure. RxList lists some of those as possible side effects, and in addition to the warnings from the brand itself, we would strongly advise against using Nasonex until you've gotten a clear green light from your doctor.
The last product we'd use for allergy relief
Though there are users who love this allergy relief product, other nasal sprays with less concerns are on our list. With its expensive price point of nearly $50/month when used as directed and warnings about causing glaucoma (among other possible issues), we would steer clear of Nasonex.
Continued from above...
If going outside leads to itchy, watery eyes or being around a cat has you sneezing, you are not alone. The CDC reports that a quarter of all adults in the United States - and nearly a fifth of the children - suffer from a seasonal allergy. The Allergy & Asthma Network reports that environmental allergies, which includes pets and poor air quality, has led to more than 4 million missed work days per year. Half of those dealing with allergies say it impacts their daily quality of life.
If you're coughing or have a runny nose, your allergies may be flaring up. You need relief now so you can do what you need to get done. Fortunately, it's easy to get allergy products online.
As you shop, keep in mind that there are two different types of allergy medication options available. First, antihistamines work by blocking histamines - one of the chemicals released by your body when you are experiencing an allergic reaction, which could include sneezing, itching, runny nose, or even hives. Some have a drowsy side effect, while others do not. There are multiple options in this category, including all-natural options, available without a prescription.
While effective for some reactions, antihistamines may not ease all symptoms of allergies. The second option is a nasal spray. The ingredients in this type of allergy medication are anti-inflammatory, working to reduce swelling in nasal passages and providing relief for congestion.
It is important to remember that not all types of allergy medications work on all symptoms. You want to choose one that targets the reactions you experience so you can find relief. Thankfully, there are plenty of remedies available to relieve suffering and reduce symptoms for those experiencing these types of allergies - and they can be purchased conveniently from your home.
Which allergy relief products are right for you? Here is a list of factors we advise taking into account when comparing the different options on the market:
We at Top Consumer Reviews have ranked the most popular allergy medicines on the market today. We hope this provides you with the information you need to find the most relief during allergy season and beyond.
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