Allergy medications, also known as antihistamines, block histamine’s effect in the body. These drugs can help reduce symptoms and prevent allergic reactions. Common non-drowsy antihistamines available over-the-counter include:
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is a fast-acting antihistamine that has been shown to effectively reduce symptoms of hives, but it may cause drowsiness. Because of this, do not take diphenhydramine before operating a motor vehicle or going about your daily activities.
If antihistamines do not effectively relieve the symptoms of hives, your doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid (such as prednisone) to reduce inflammation and itching. Corticosteroids are prescribed as short-term relief, as they carry the risk of serious adverse side effects if taken over a long period of time.
If an outbreak of hives is accompanied by more serious symptoms of anaphylaxis, an epinephrine injection is needed to open narrowing airways; seek immediate help in this situation by calling 911.