Pharmacy Daily | Don’t sneeze at OTC relief

FOLLOWING mainstream media reports suggesting there is no role for oral antihistamines in the management of seasonal hayfever, the Australian Self Medication Industry (ASMI) has urged consumers who suffer from hayfever to discuss their symptoms with their doctor or pharmacist to ensure they receive the most appropriate treatment.

Common over-the-counter products used to treat allergic rhinitis, whether seasonal (SAR) or at any time of year or perenial (PAR), include intranasal corticosteroid sprays, oral non-sedating antihistamines and intranasal antihistamine and other sprays such as salines.

ASMI says oral antihistamine medicines can be beneficial and may be used in combination with intranasal corticosteroid sprays when the symptoms of seasonal hayfever strike.

The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) recommends either a non-sedating oral or intranasal antihistamine as the first line of treatment for intermittent mild AR or it can be used in combination with other treatment options, such as intranasal sprays.

For children under the age of 12, non-sedating oral antihistamines are an established first-line treatment option for mild symptoms of hayfever and continue to remain the mainstay in the treatment for allergic disorders.

ASMI highlights that these are available in pharmacies in child-friendly formats such as syrups or chewable tablets.

In addition to speaking with a doctor or pharmacist, there are some useful patient and consumer resources available on the ASCIA or NPS MedicineWise websites.

As always, consumers are reminded to use these OTC products only as directed on the label instructions, and to always see a doctor if symptoms persist.