Tag: Allergy relief

In May 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about a rare but severe itching, or pruritus, that can occur when discontinuing long-term use of certain oral allergy medicines, particularly cetirizine (Zyrtec) and levocetirizine (Xyzal). While dependence is uncommon, individuals who use antihistamines daily for extended periods may experience withdrawal symptoms upon stopping, and understanding **how long does antihistamine withdrawal take** is crucial for managing this process safely and effectively.

Studies have shown that long-term users of prescription H1 antihistamines can have a significantly higher weight and waist circumference than non-users [1.5.3]. This article explores which antihistamines cause the most weight gain, the mechanisms behind it, and what alternatives are available.

According to major drug interaction checkers like Drugs.com, there are no known significant interactions between the non-drowsy antihistamine loratadine (Claritin) and the antidepressant escitalopram (Lexapro). While this is reassuring, the question, 'Can you take Claritin if on Lexapro?', requires a closer look at different formulations and potential side effects to ensure complete safety. It is a common combination and generally well-tolerated.

Over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year, prompting many to seek effective and lasting relief. For those with persistent symptoms, the question often arises: 'Can I take Claritin and Xyzal?' to boost symptom control? However, because both medications are part of the same drug class, combining them is generally not recommended without specific medical advice and could increase the risk of side effects.

While promethazine and phenylephrine are often formulated together in prescription syrups for cold and allergy relief, combining them requires careful consideration due to potential side effects and drug interactions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the safety precautions associated with this medication combination.

A recent FDA advisory committee concluded that oral phenylephrine is not an effective nasal decongestant at its current dosage. So, what is the drug phenylephrine used for effectively? This vasoconstrictor has various medical applications, depending on its form and delivery method.

According to a 2018 study in *Clinical Ophthalmology*, a significant majority of patients with dry eyes reported improved symptoms when switching to preservative-free drops, and yes, you can buy many types of over-the-counter medicated eye drops for various common issues.

According to the National Eye Institute, millions of Americans suffer from chronic dry eye, often managed with daily eye drops. But for many, the question remains: **how do you know if eye drops are working** effectively for your specific condition? The answer depends heavily on the type of medication and the underlying problem it is designed to address.

Flonase's active ingredient is fluticasone propionate, a type of corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. So, **is Flonase a decongestant or antihistamine?** The answer is neither, as it uses a different mechanism to provide broad-spectrum allergy relief compared to these other common medications.

Over 50 million Americans experience allergies each year, often leading to nasal congestion. When seeking relief, many consider combining Flonase (a steroid) with a decongestant. The safety of this combination depends on the type of decongestant, but generally, they can be used together with proper precautions.