20.1 A Word of Caution

This section of the book contains information on the various medication options available to treat allergy symptoms. In each chapter, you’ll find high-yield information on what each class of medication is, what symptoms each class is good in treating, examples of the class, why/when you might choose to use each either alone or in combination, and associated risks/side effects.

For this chapter, the author’s take-home point is: Beware! Although decongestants are frequently used to treat allergic symptoms, these medications are not specifically focused on targeting allergies and the author avoids using these. They are generally not meant for long-term daily use and have significant side effects and risks. There are few select times when the author has recommended their use to patients. However, the practitioner should use them with caution for treating allergy symptoms, particularly for any extended period of time.

20.2 What Is This Class of Medication?

These medications act on alpha adrenergic receptors and one of their main effects is vasoconstriction. Intranasal decongestants also thin the nasal mucosa.

20.3 What Symptoms Are Good for Treating?

Nasal congestion, ocular erythema. These medications cause vasoconstriction, which shrinks blood vessels, reducing nasal congestion symptoms and the appearance of red eyes. However, they have no effect on other allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, or itchiness.