Everything You Know About The Best OTC Antihistamines

Cetirizine

Cetirizine is a strong antihistamine. So strong! This one's second-gen, so it's not going to trigger the same drowsiness. Win! This med's great for dealing with hay fever and allergies to mold and animal dander. It'll even work on allergies to dust mites! Men, when you've got hives, this med's going to tackle your itchy, red skin until it's gone. You'll take it as a tablet or liquid. And those tablets? You've got 3 options: regular, chewable, and extended-release!

But men, hold your horses. Side effects exist on this one too! Expect dry mouth, diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting, among others. These will go away most of the time. Call your doc if they're really bad or stick around. Make an immediate call, men, if you're dealing with swallowing or breathing problems. Don't hesitate! Talk to your doc before taking this med when you've got kidney or liver disease. And when you have allergies to other meds? Ask them too! Med interactions happen with cetirizine. That's why you've got to go over your med list first! Watch for seizure meds, sleep aids, and anxiety meds. All of them interact with this one. But you knew that!