What should you know about infant allergy medicine?

Allergy symptoms can include a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes or an itchy throat. These may also occur with a viral infection or irritation, so a clinician considers the pattern, exposure and examination. Medicines may reduce histamine-related symptoms, but they do not remove the trigger or treat every cause of congestion.

Products vary in active ingredient, strength and age suitability. A liquid medicine needs an accurate measuring device, and combining products can accidentally duplicate an ingredient. Never use an adult preparation or share another child’s medicine.

Have a pharmacist or clinician confirm the product, dose, timing and duration for your infant. Read the label each time, use the supplied syringe or measure and keep the bottle out of reach. Reduce exposure to a suspected trigger when practical, such as keeping the sleeping area free from dust and avoiding smoke. Do not start herbal products or nasal medicines without advice.

If symptoms recur around pets or dust, record the timing and surroundings. This can help identify patterns linked with pet allergy, house dust mite allergy or allergic rhinitis.

Call emergency services immediately if your baby has swelling of the lips, tongue or face, noisy or difficult breathing, sudden wheezing, pale or floppy behaviour, or widespread hives with vomiting or breathing symptoms. For ongoing symptoms, seek medical review if feeding is affected, breathing through the nose remains difficult or the diagnosis is uncertain.

Ask what trigger is suspected, which ingredient is suitable for your baby’s age, how to measure the dose and what side effects require help. Ask whether the symptoms fit allergic conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis or another condition.