Hay fever medicine – what to ask a pharmacist
A safe South African guide to hay-fever medicine, nasal symptoms, drowsiness and when allergy symptoms need more than a pharmacy product.
The best option depends on the pattern
Hay fever can cause sneezing, an itchy or blocked nose, watery eyes and throat irritation. A pharmacist can match the symptoms, age, pregnancy status, other conditions and current medicines to a suitable approach. One person's allergy product can be unsuitable for another person, especially if it causes drowsiness.
Options a pharmacist may discuss
- Reducing exposure to a known pollen, dust or animal trigger.
- A non-drowsy or sedating antihistamine, depending on the situation.
- A nasal treatment when the nose is the main problem.
- Eye care or a clinician review when symptoms are severe or persistent.
Examples in the curated formulary; ask before choosing one:
Cetirizine — Zyrtec, Texa, Adco-Cetirizine, Allerclear
Allergic rhinitis; urticaria; allergic conjunctivitis
Loratadine — Clarityne, Lorano, Adco-Loratadine, Allertin
Allergic rhinitis; urticaria; allergic skin conditions
Fluticasone Nasal Spray — Flixonase, Avamys
Allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial); nasal polyps
Use an allergy product safely
- Tell the pharmacist if you drive, operate machinery or need to stay alert.
- Check whether a cold or flu product already contains an antihistamine.
- Use a nasal spray with the demonstrated direction and technique.
- Return for assessment if symptoms persist, change or affect breathing.
Allergy symptoms can become an emergency
Common questions
- What medicine helps hay fever?
- A pharmacist may discuss an antihistamine or nasal treatment based on your symptoms and health history. Use the exact label and do not double up combination products.
- Can hay-fever medicine make you sleepy?
- Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Ask the pharmacist which option is appropriate if you drive, work at height or need to stay alert.
Sources
- Adult Primary Care guide: symptom-based integrated approach to the adult in primary careNational Department of Health, South Africa
- Medicines Online Directory and approved patient information leafletsSouth African Health Products Regulatory Authority
Last reviewed 26 August 2026.