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    Antihistamines for Allergic Rhinitis

    Antihistamines for Allergic Rhinitis



    Examples

    Older (first-generation) over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Semprex-D acrivastine
      brompheniramine maleate
    Chlor-Trimeton chlorpheniramine maleate
    Tavist-1 clemastine fumarate
    Benadryl diphenhydramine
    Vistaril hydroxyzine
      promethazine

    Newer (second-generation) over-the-counter antihistamines

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Zyrtec cetirizine
    Allegra fexofenadine
    Alavert, Claritin loratadine

    Newer (second-generation) prescription antihistamines

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Astelin azelastine
    Clarinex desloratadine
    Xyzal levocetirizine
    Patanase olopatadine

    Antihistamines may be available as tablets, capsules, nasal sprays, or liquids. You can use them alone or combined with decongestants to treat Reference allergic rhinitis Opens New Window.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: May 14, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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