Medicine for Babies With Allergies

Infants may experience allergies when their bodies perceive airborne substances as potential threats. Allergic responses occur as the body's way of protecting itself from unwanted invaders. When parents suspect that their infant is suffering from allergies, they should address their concerns with a pediatrician who can recommend appropriate medications.

Identification

• Allergies in infants may be difficult to discern from the common cold. However, allergies persist longer and accompanied by symptoms such as stuffy nose, runny nose, clear nasal mucus discharge, dry cough, sneezing, red eyes and itchy eyes.

Time Frame

• Infants may not have an allergic response to a specific allergen until after several exposures to a certain allergen. Pollen allergens do not typically appear until a child is 3 years or older.

Types

• Common types of nasal allergies include pollens from trees, grasses and weeds, dust mites and mold.

Over-the-counter Medications

• Don't give over-the-counter counter antihistamines to infants younger than 6 months of age. In the case of older infants consult a doctor before giving them over-the-counter antihistamines. Common over-the-counter antihistamines include Dimetapp, Chlortrimeton and Benadryl.

Prescription Medications

• Infants who have severe allergies may be prescribed stronger antihistamines or decongestants. Prescription antihistamines include Allegra, Zyrtec and Claritin.