If you suffer from pet allergies, you know how frustrating it can be to be around animals that you love. Sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes are just some of the symptoms that can make it difficult to enjoy your time with your furry friends. Fortunately, there are a number of allergy medicines available that can help you manage your symptoms and live a more comfortable life.

What Allergy Medicine is Best for Pet Allergies?

Oral Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines are one of the most common types of allergy medicine. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body when it comes into contact with an allergen. Antihistamines can help to relieve symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Some common oral antihistamines include:

  • Loratadine (Claritin)
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
  • Fexofenadine (Allegra)

    • Nasal Steroids

    Nasal steroids are another effective treatment for pet allergies. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help to relieve symptoms such as a runny nose and congestion.

    Some common nasal steroids include:

  • Fluticasone (Flonase)
  • Triamcinolone (Nasacort)
  • Mometasone (Nasonex)

    • Decongestants

    Decongestants can help to relieve nasal congestion by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages. This can help to open up the airways and make it easier to breathe.

    Some common decongestants include:

  • Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
  • Phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)
  • Oxymetazoline (Afrin)

    • Combination Medications

    Combination medications contain two or more different types of allergy medicine. This can be a convenient way to treat multiple symptoms at once. Some common combination medications include:

  • Claritin-D (loratadine and pseudoephedrine)
  • Zyrtec-D (cetirizine and pseudoephedrine)
  • Allegra-D (fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine)

    • Immunotherapy

    Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment for pet allergies that works by gradually desensitizing the body to the allergen. This can help to reduce symptoms over time and may even eliminate them completely.

    Which Allergy Medicine is Best for Me?

    The best allergy medicine for you will depend on your individual symptoms and preferences. Talk to your doctor about which type of medication is right for you.