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Common allergy medicines: what to know

Equipment and setting used in Allergy Medication
Illustration: Equipment and setting used in Allergy Medication

Short answer

Common allergy medicines include antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and other treatments chosen according to the symptoms and trigger.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Common forms
Tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops
Main choice factors
Symptoms, age, health conditions, and other medicines

How the options differ

Antihistamines reduce the effects of histamine, a chemical involved in itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. Some can cause drowsiness or a dry mouth, while less-sedating choices may be more suitable for daytime use. Nasal sprays can target inflammation and congestion inside the nose; technique and regular use may matter more than taking an occasional dose.

Eye drops may help allergic eye irritation, and a pharmacist or clinician can help match treatment to [Itchy Eyes](/symptoms/itchy-eyes/), [Blocked Nose](/symptoms/blocked-nose/), [Itchy Throat](/symptoms/itchy-throat/), or [Runny Nose](/symptoms/runny-nose/). [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) and [Allergic Conjunctivitis](/conditions/allergic-conjunctivitis/) may need different combinations.

Using allergy medicines thoughtfully

Read the active ingredients and avoid taking more than one product containing the same antihistamine. Ask a pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, treating a child, have glaucoma, prostate problems, heart rhythm concerns, or take sedating medicines. Do not drive or use machinery until you know how a product affects you.

Reduce exposure where possible: wash bedding regularly for dust-mite symptoms, keep pets out of sleeping areas if they trigger symptoms, and keep a record of when symptoms occur. Persistent symptoms may relate to [House Dust Mite Allergy](/conditions/house-dust-mite-allergy/) or [Pet Allergy](/conditions/pet-allergy/), rather than a cold.

When to seek care

Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, wheezing, faintness, or difficulty breathing after an exposure; these can be signs of a severe allergic reaction. Arrange medical review when symptoms keep returning, disturb sleep, affect breathing, or do not improve with correct use. Do not rely on allergy medicine alone for breathing difficulty.

Questions for your doctor

Which medicine fits my main symptoms? How should I use a nasal spray or eye drops? Could another condition be causing the symptoms? Which side effects should prompt a change? Do I need an allergy assessment?

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Do allergy medicines remove the allergy?

They control symptoms but do not necessarily remove sensitivity to a trigger. Avoidance and specialist advice may also be useful.

Can allergy medicine make me sleepy?

Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Check the label, avoid mixing with alcohol or sedatives, and do not drive until you know your response.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.