Seasonal Allergies

Spring is right around the corner, and that means so are good weather and outdoor activities. If you experience seasonal allergies, your local Big Y Pharmacy Team is here to help! Let’s discuss allergy medications available over-the-counter (OTC) and cost-saving measures that may be available to you.

What Are My Options?

Mother and Child

The answer will depend on:

Your symptoms.
What you have tried so far.
If you've implemented in-house purifying agents.

Common allergy medications include antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, and eye drops.

What Do Oral Antihistamines Offer?

Man Talking to Therapist

Oral antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms for 12-24 hours by reducing histamine in your body. Products like Benadryl® can cause drowsiness, while Claritin®, Zyrtec®, and Allegra® may cause less.

What Are Intranasal Options?

Man in Wheel Chair Laughing

Intranasal options include antihistamines (Astepro®), steroids (Flonase®), decongestants (Afrin®), and saline sprays. Steroids reduce inflammation but may cause dryness; saline rinses can help mitigate that.

How Can Decongestants Help?

Woman and Family Hoola Hoop

Decongestants shrink blood vessels in the nose to ease congestion. Sudafed® requires ID to purchase; phenylephrine does not. If you have high blood pressure, consult your pharmacist before using.

When Eye Drops Will Help

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Eye drops can help reduce redness and irritation. Apply drops at the corner of the eye near your nose to avoid contamination.

Lowering Medication Costs

Woman at Beach

To save money, consider generic alternatives or request prescriptions that may be tax-free. Talk to your Big Y pharmacy for reduced-cost options.