Download Common Sense Precautions: Interactions and Effectiveness of Allergy Medications and more Study notes Nursing in PDF only on Docsity!
COMMON SENSE PRECAUTIONS
Talk with your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking,
especially sleeping pills, sedatives, stimulants, ADHD medication, MAO inhibitors,
anti-fungal medication, diet pills, muscle relaxants, pain relievers and medications
for depression and seizures.
Some allergy medications can make people drowsy. Always use caution in
performing activities requiring alertness (e.g., driving).
If you are pregnant or nursing, always consult with a doctor first.
Check with a doctor about using for children, the elderly or other sensitive groups.
Always Talk to Your Doctor If You Have a Medical or Family History of:
Known drug or food
allergies
Alcoholism
Asthma
Blood clots
Cataracts
Diabetes
Enlarged prostate /
difficulty urinating
Glaucoma
Heart disease or high
blood pressure
HIV
Kidney or liver disease
Lung problems
Mental illness
Overactive thyroid
Tuberculosis
Seizures
Any other chronic or
serious conditions
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR: SEE HOW OVER-THE-COUNTER COMPARES WITH PRESCRIPTION TREATMENTS
Allergy Treatment Guide
Does allergy season have you in its grip? Here's a quick and easy overview of today's allergy treatments.
CLASSIFICATION BRAND NAME GENERIC NAME SUTTER MEDICAL EXPERTS SAY:
Oral Antihistamines Clarinex
Xyzal desloratadine levocetirizine OTC oral antihistamines are an effective choice for most people, providing the same benefits as prescrition medications like these.
Oral Corticosteroids Prednisone Intensol
Prelon nasal antihistamines Very effective. Short term side effects can include increased appetite, emotional changes, increased blood sugar. CAUTION: Long term use is associated with a number of potentially serious side effects. Be sure to discuss this thoroughly with your doctor. If used, shots not recommended; oral is a better choice.
Nasal Antihistamines Astelin, Astepro
Patanase azelastine olopatadine These work for all nasal symptoms within 20 minutes. Can leave bad taste in throat if not used properly.
Nasal Corticosteroids Nasonex
Veramyst Qnasl Zetonna mometesone fluticasone beclomethasone ciclesonide The most effective medication for all nasal allergy symptoms. Can cause nose bleeds if not used properly. CLASSIFICATION BRAND NAME GENERIC NAME SUTTER MEDICAL EXPERTS SAY:
Oral Antihistamines Allegra
Claritin Chlor-Trimeton Zyrtec Tavist Benadryl Tylenol Allergy and Sinus fexofenadine loratadine chlorpheniramine cetirizine clemastine diphenhydramine Effective, second generation antihistamines (Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra) can be purchased generic over-the-counter. They help with itching, runny nose and sneezing but not with congestion. They are safe. Older antihistamines (such as Benedryl) are not recommended, because they cause sleepiness.
Oral Decongestants Allegra-D
Claritin-D Zyrtec-D Sudafed pseudoephedrine and/ or antihistamine phenylephrine Good for nasal congestion. However, these can cause insomnia, increase in blood pressure, and difficulty with urination in some men. Talk to your doctor about potential concerns.
Nasal Decongestant Neo-synephrine nasal spray
Afrin Vick's Sinex 4-Way Fast Acting Nasal Spray neo-synephrine oxymetazoline Very effective in quickly alleviating nasal congestion. CAUTION: Using more than four days in a row can cause addiction, creating reliance on these types of products.
Nasal Corticosteroids Flonase
Nasocort Rhinocort fluticasone triamcinolone budesonide The most effective medication for all nasal allergy symptoms. Can cause nose bleeds if not used properly.
OVER THE COUNTER
PRESCRIPTION
CLASSIFICATION SUTTER MEDICAL EXPERTS SAY:
Immunotherapy
(allergy shots)
Immunotherapy is the only way of treating the underlying cause of allergic rhinitis and asthma, and is very effective if done properly. Some people find permanent relief after five years of treatment and are able to stop their shots.
Saline Rinses Saline rinses are always a good option and can be used frequently. They can help reduce
symptoms like dryness, bloody nose and irritation.
Air Purifiers Can be helpful for indoor pet allergy. HEPA recommended.
