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Schaumburg, IL
A 42-year-old female asked:

Which allergy medication works best for a 5 yr old?

2 doctor answers8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Lawrence Wasser
Specializes in Pediatrics
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or claritin: Benadryl (diphenhydramine) works well but can be sedating, or paradoxically might cause hyperactivity. Claritin is a nice alternative, working for 24 hours and usually not sedating.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. James Ferguson
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Varies some: Claritin (loratadine), (loratadine) allegra, or zyrtec are once daily meds and each work well on some kids and not others. The Claritin (loratadine) and Allegra are not sedating and thus do not interfere with school or daily activities.The zyrtec can be sedating and is given at bedtime to reduce this effect during the day. Short acting meds like benedryl are quickly absorbed and very effective but can sedate and do ware off quickly.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Nov 28, 2017

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