Have allergies got you down? Read below to learn about the best anti-allergy tablets in Pakistan to put you on the road to recovery.
Table of Contents
What Are Allergies?
- Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to conditions or substances that are considered harmless for most individuals. These substances are called allergens. Examples include pollen, pet dander, and mold, etc.
- When an allergen is introduced into the body, it can lead to an allergic reaction.
- During an allergic reaction, the immune system creates antibodies (IgE antibodies) that identify certain allergens as dangerous. When those antibodies interact with the allergens it triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals which can lead to inflammation, redness, itching, watery eyes, runny nose, etc.
- Anti-allergy tablets or “nazla zukam tablets” as they are sometimes referred to in Pakistan, are effective against hay fever and pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander-induced allergies.
What Are The Symptoms Of Allergies?
Symptoms of allergy vary depending on the type of allergen involved. They can harm your digestive system, skin, sinuses, and nasal pathways. Allergic reactions can be as mild as sneezing or as harmful as life-threatening. Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Itching on the skin, nose, and eyes
- Runny nose
- Swollen and watery eyes
- Coughing
- Swelling
- Difficulty breathing
7 Effective Anti-Allergic Tablets In Pakistan
Numerous medicines for allergies are available, each with different components, modes of action, and costs. Before using these drugs, you should always consult with your doctor.
The best tablets for allergies in Pakistan are listed below:
- Rigix Tablet
- Clarinex Tablet
- Fexet Tablet
- Xyzal Tablet
- Zatofen Tablet
- Actifed-P Tablet
- Zyrtec Tablet
Read more for the details about the best medicines for allergies in Pakistan.
1. Rigix Tablet
Rigix is an antihistamine tablet in Pakistan used to treat hay fever and allergic rhinitis symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, and itching.
It works by preventing your body from producing histamine, a natural chemical produced during an allergic reaction.
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Cetirizine (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- AGP
Side Effects
The common side effects of Rigix are:
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- sore throat, Restlessness
- Headache and dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Runny nose
Dosage
- One 10-milligram (mg) dose per day is the standard dosage for children aged 6 and above and adults under 65.
- Do not take more than 10 mg in 24 hours. If you have minor allergies, your doctor could prescribe a 5-mg dosage once or twice a day.
Price
- PKR 80-100 per strip
Risk And Warnings
- This product includes lactose. Before using this medication, speak with your doctor if they have informed you that you have a lactose intolerance.
- There could be very few exceptions of drowsiness so you should avoid driving or using machinery if you feel lightheaded or sleepy.
2. Clarinex
Clarinex is one of the best allergy tablets in Pakistan. It contains desloratadine as the active ingredient which is an antihistamine.
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Desloratadine (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- Schering Corporation
Side Effects
- Muscle Pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion,
- Loss Of Appetite
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Tired Feeling
Dosage
- Adults and children aged 12 and above should take 5 mg of Clarinex every day.
- Children two years of age and up can take syrup; the dosage is based on the child’s age.
Price
- PKR 220
Risk And Warnings
- It is uncommon for this medication to cause a very severe adverse response.
- However, if you have any of the following signs of a significant allergic response, you should seek medical attention immediately: extreme dizziness, breathing difficulties, rash, or itching or swelling, particularly in the face, tongue, or neck.
Consult expert doctors in Lahore if you experience any side effects.
3. Fexet Tablet
Fexet contains the generic drug fexofenadine HCl, a second-generation antihistamine. It is used to treat hay fever and chronic idiopathic urticaria, or hives, which are the signs of allergies.
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Fexofenadine (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- Getz Pharma
Side Effects
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Dosage
- Depending on the severity of symptoms, adults and children over 12 years old usually take 120 mg or 180 mg once a day.
Price
- PKR 10-15 per tablet
Risk And Warnings
- Fexofenadine should not be taken with fruit juices, as they may impair its absorption. Caution is advised in patients with kidney impairment.
4. Xyzal Tablet
A second-generation antihistamine, Xyzal is used to treat chronic idiopathic urticaria and allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Levocetirizine (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- GSK
Side Effects
- Drowsiness,
- Dry Mouth,
- Fatigue,
- Less Commonly,
- Abdominal Pain
Directions
- This drug is given orally, generally once a day in the evening, with or without meals.
- If you are taking this medication in liquid form, use a specific measuring tool or spoon to accurately measure the dosage. You might not receive the right dosage if you use a regular spoon.
Price
PKR 90
Risk And Warnings
- There may be inactive chemicals in this product that might lead to allergic reactions or other issues. See your chemist for further information.
- Inform your doctor or chemist about your medical history before using this drug, paying particular attention to any kidney illness or problems urinating (such as those caused by an enlarged prostate).
Also Read: Kharish Ka Ilaj
5. Zatofen
Zatofen is considered to be one of the best medicine for allergy in Pakistan. It is used to treat itchy eyes since it is an antihistamine (a chemical found in the body that causes allergies).
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Ketotifen (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- Novartis Pharma (Pakistan) Ltd
Side Effects
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Inability to sleep (insomnia)
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
Price
- PKR 106
Risk And Warnings
- When glaucoma (an increase in fluid pressure inside the eye) occurs, individuals on this drug need to exercise caution.
- This drug may cause temporary blurred vision, so avoid driving, using equipment, or engaging in any other activity that needs clear eyesight after taking it.
6. Actifed-P Tablet
This combination drug is used to treat common cold, flu, allergies, and other respiratory conditions (including sinusitis and bronchitis) by temporarily relieving their symptoms.
Actifed-P is also available in syrup form.
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Triprolidine (Antihistamine)
- Pseudoephedrine (Decongestant)
- Paracetamol (Analgesic/Antipyretic)
Manufacturer
- GSK
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Constipation
- Trouble sleeping
Directions
- As prescribed by your physician, take this medicine orally. Observe all product packaging instructions if you are self-treating. Ask your chemist or doctor any queries you may have.
- If gastrointestinal distress arises, this drug maybe given with meals. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink a lot of water.
Price
- PKR 25-30
Risk And Warnings
- If you have are allergic to any of the ingredients in this medication, let your doctor or chemist know before using it.
- Inactive chemicals in this product may result in allergic reactions or other issues. For further information, speak with your chemist.
7. Zyrtec
Generic Name and Drug Class
- Cetirizine Dihydrochloride (Antihistamine)
Manufacturer
- McNeil Consumer Healthcare
Side Effects
- Headache and dizziness
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Restlessness
- Dry mouth
- sore throat
- Upset stomach
Directions
- Take one pill of 10 mg per day.
- Take no more than one 10 mg pill in 24 hours.
- For milder symptoms, a 5 mg product can be suitable.
- Before using this over-the-counter allergy medicine, read the label carefully and adhere to the directions.
Price
- PKR 160
Risk And Warnings
Be cautious if:
- You are breastfeeding or pregnant.
- Renal insufficiency affects you.
- You suffer from epilepsy.
When To See A Doctor For Allergies?
You should see a doctor for allergies in the following cases:
- Worsening symptoms: If your allergy symptoms are getting worse it is recommended to visit a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
- Recurring allergies: For frequent allergies a general physician in Karachi can help. If your allergies go away temporarily then return again soon after it can be a sign to get a check-up at your nearest healthcare facility.
- Lack of relief despite medications: If allergy medications have failed to provide relief with your allergy symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if you take too many allergy tablets?
Taking too many allergy tablets can result in an overdose. It can lead to symptoms like heart palpitations, dry mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties, and seizures. In case of an overdose, it is recommended to visit your nearest healthcare facility at once, or notify emergency services to receive the necessary medical care.
2. How long can I take anti-allergy tablets?
Anti-allergy tablets are usually recommended for short-term use of 1-2 weeks. This duration may be extended based on the condition and its severity if your doctor recommends.
3. How do anti-allergy tablets work?
Allergy tablets work in different ways, depending on the specific drug to alleviate allergy symptoms. For example antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors (H1 receptors) to treat allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, swelling, runny nose, and watery eyes, etc.
4. How long does it take for allergy tablets to work?
It can take allergy tablets up to 30 minutes to an hour to start working depending on the specific medication.
5. How to take allergy tablets?
You should take allergy tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor. They should be taken orally with a glass of water. Swallow the tablet whole without chewing or crushing it. In case of any side effects, let your doctor know.
6. How many allergy tablets can you take?
The number of allergy tablets you can take may vary from case-to-case basis. The usual recommended dosage is 1 tablet per day or as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage as it can lead to side effects.
