As pollen counts soar and allergy season hits its peak in Ohio, many individuals are considering switching to new antihistamines for relief. However, some may encounter unexpected itchiness upon discontinuing their current medication—a potential withdrawal symptom often overlooked.
According to Dr. Sandra Hong, MD, an allergist at Cleveland Clinic, while uncommon, certain long-acting non-sedating antihistamines can trigger severe itchiness when abruptly stopped after prolonged use. To mitigate this discomfort, Dr. Hong suggests several strategies:
Switch to Non-Sedating Alternatives: Consider transitioning to another over-the-counter allergy medication that is non-sedating to avoid itchiness.
Gradually Wean Off Medication: Instead of abruptly discontinuing the original allergy medication, gradually reduce frequency by switching to every other day dosing.
Consider Children’s Allergy Medication: Another option is to switch to children’s allergy medication and decrease the dosage gradually.
Dr. Hong explains that certain antihistamines may cause itchiness upon cessation due to their ingredients and their ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. However, she emphasizes that this does not imply these medications are less safe. Patients experiencing such symptoms may mistakenly attribute them to severe allergies, leading them to continue medication unnecessarily.
Dr. Hong reassures patients that abrupt onset of generalized itchiness is not typical of allergy-related symptoms, which usually manifest as localized itching in the upper airway. If individuals have concerns about their allergy medication or potential withdrawal symptoms, Dr. Hong advises consulting with an allergist for personalized guidance and management.
This expert advice aims to empower individuals to navigate allergy medication transitions effectively and alleviate any discomfort associated with withdrawal symptoms, ensuring optimal relief during allergy season.
