What's the most effective non-drowsy allergy medication?

Claritin (loratadine)?Zyrtec: Most of the over the counter preparations such as Claritin (loratadine) and zyrtec are thought to be the least sedating of all antihistamines. It should be noted that all antihistamines can cause some degree of fatigue but these are the least sedating.

Several options: For nose or eye allergies, one can start with over-the-counter Claritin or zyrtec (or ask the doctor for the prescription versions of either, which might be a little more effective). For nose symptoms, steroid nasal sprays help a lot, such as Nasonex (mometasone) or Flonase (generic is cheaper). Adding singulair can help too. For eye symptoms, adding drops such as Pataday or Patanol can help.

Trial and error: Over the counter clemastine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, or Loratadine can all be equally effective, and non-drowsy. Just have to try it and see which one works for you. There are also some nasal sprays(by prescription) which work well.

Allergy Med: This is not a fair question, and I am sorry, but i must disagree with dr. Kwok. The sole oral antihistamine that does not cross the blood brain barrier and does not cause drowsiness in fexofenadine (aka.. Allegra). Every other otc oral antihistamine has the risk of drowsiness. Most effective is also not fair bc every patient is different and we tailor therapy to the patient. C ur allergist.