Healthy Lifestyle

Are your allergy meds working? How to tell if you need a change.

Portrait of happy senior woman gardening. She is pruning flowers.

03/26/2025

Spring is in the air — and so is pollen. If you’re one of many people who reach for nasal spray or eye drops at the first sign of sneezing or itchy eyes, you might be wondering: Are these allergy medications really going to work?

 

By Nicola McAnuff, MD, Family Medicine Resident, Nuvance Health Medical Practice

 

Did you know nearly 26% of adults and 20% of children in the U.S. suffer from seasonal allergies? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pollen is one of the most common allergens. With so many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription options available, it can be tough to understand which allergy medication(s) you need and which will help provide relief. 

 

How to tell if you have allergies and which medications can help you feel better

 

Sneezing, runny nose and itchy, watery eyes are a few ways your body is trying to tell you it doesn’t like something. Allergy symptoms are often triggered by pollen, dust, mold and pet dander, just to name a few. Thankfully, allergy medications can help reduce unpleasant symptoms and help you get through the day.

 

You might ask yourself: “How do I know which allergy medication I need?”

 

Antihistamines help reduce sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes. They also help reduce a runny nose and nasal stuffiness.

 

Nasal corticosteroids help reduce nasal inflammation and congestion. 

 

Nasal sprays and rinses with saline can help reduce mucus and rinse allergens out of your nose.

 

Eye drops can relieve redness, itchiness, burning and swelling.

 

Decongestants help relieve nasal stuffiness and are generally used for a short period of time.

 

Leukotriene receptor antagonists help block allergic reactions and are used to manage asthma.

 

 

If you think you may be experiencing allergies but you’re not quite sure, discuss your symptoms with your primary care provider and they can help determine whether you have allergies or not.

 

 

Signs your allergy meds aren’t working

 

If you’re still battling allergy symptoms despite regular medication use, you’re not alone. Here are some common signs your allergy meds may not be doing their job:


  1. Lingering symptoms: If you’re still sneezing, sniffling or dealing with watery eyes hours after taking your medication, it may not be effective for your specific allergens.

  2. Short-lived relief: Allergy meds should provide several hours of symptom relief. If you find yourself constantly needing more doses, your body may be metabolizing the medication too quickly.

     

  3. Increased drowsiness or side effects: If you feel groggy or experience dry mouth, your medication may be causing more side effects than relief. You also want to make sure you take a nondrowsy medication during the day or during the hours you’re awake.

     

  4. Worsening symptoms during peak season: Pollen counts spike during spring. If your usual medication stops working, you might need a stronger or different treatment.

     

  5. Worsening congestion: Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can cause rebound congestion, making your symptoms worsen over time.

 

 

If your allergy medications aren’t working, speak with your primary care provider, and they can help recommend an alternative.

 

 

Why allergy medications can stop working

 

Even if a medication has provided relief in the past, it may become less effective over time. When you take allergy medications for an extended period, they can become less effective because your body builds a tolerance. 

 

If you’re exposed to higher pollen levels or new allergens, your medication might not be strong enough. There’s also a possibility chronic sinus issues like asthma can mimic allergy symptoms and make medications seem like they’re not working.

 

 

It’s important to follow directions on the package and to take the proper dose. If you’re not taking the right amount or skipping doses, it can reduce the medication’s effectiveness.

 

 

When to switch allergy medications

 

If your allergy meds aren’t cutting it, consider these options:

 

Try a different antihistamine. Not all antihistamines work the same way. If loratadine isn’t effective, cetirizine or fexofenadine might provide better relief.

 

Consider combination therapy. Combining an antihistamine with a nasal spray or decongestant can offer all-around symptom control.

 

Switch to a prescription. If OTC options fail, your doctor may recommend stronger prescription antihistamines, nasal steroids or even allergy shots.

 

Take allergy medications one to two weeks in advance. Allergy meds work best when taken before exposure. Start taking them about a week or two before allergy season peaks — about late February to early March for spring and late August to early September for fall.

 

 

How to reduce your exposure to allergies

 

While allergy medication can ease symptoms, you can also reduce your exposure to allergens by taking a few proactive steps:

 

  • Limit outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.

 

  • Keep your household and car windows closed when pollen counts are high.

 

  • Remove your shoes before entering your home.

 

  • Shower before going to bed and change/wash your clothes after wearing them outside.

 

  • Wash your bedding and floors once a week and vacuum often.

 

  • Dust often, especially ceiling and standing fans.

 

 

The bottom line: If your allergy medications aren’t providing the relief you need, it might be time for a change. Whether it’s switching to a different type of medication, trying a proactive approach or getting help from your primary care provider, there are plenty of options to help you breathe easier this allergy season.