How to Pick an Allergy Antihistamine for Pets

Stuffy noses, itchy throats and watery eyes are all common manifestations for people who have allergies to pets. Pet hair and skin cells, also known as dander, cause the histamines in the body to become irritated and react negatively. Using an over-the-counter antihistamine can often relieve allergy symptoms that are caused by our beloved pets.

Things You'll Need

• Drug information for antihistamine medications

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Instructions

• 1

  Research the various types of allergy antihistamines on the market. Though many of the symptoms of seasonal allergies and allergies to dust mites and pet dander are similar, certain medications may only be approved for some types of allergies. You will want to pick one that has been proven to relieve discomfort due to pet allergies.

• 2

  Bring a list of the medications and vitamins you use with you when you go to buy an antihistamine for your pet allergies. The pharmacist can let you know whether there are any potential interactions that may occur with your current medicine and one of the antihistamines you are considering.

• 3

  Think about your lifestyle when you pick an allergy medication. Antihistamines that have been on the market longer, referred to as "first-generation" medications, cause more drowsiness than newer, "second-generation" drugs. If it is important for you to remain alert when taking antihistamines, you may opt to take the newer medications that contain loratadine, ceterizine and fexofenadine.

• 4

  Select an antihistamine that also contains a decongestant if a stuffy head and nose is one of the symptoms you experience when you are around pets. Usually, the letter "D" is added after the brand name to alert you to the fact that a decongestant is an active ingredient.

• 5

  Use an extended-release version of the drug if you will be in an environment that contains allergens for a long period of time. Many long-acting antihistamines are taken once daily and are effective for a full 24 hours.