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What are the antihistamines for rhinitis?

Nov 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
There are various types of antihistamines used to treat rhinitis. Commonly used ones include loratadine, cetirizine, ebastine, desloratadine, and levocetirizine. Loratadine belongs to the second-generation antihistamines. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and effectively relieves symptoms of rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal itching. It has a weak sedative effect, and most people can take it without significantly affecting their daily activities.

There are various types of antihistamines used to treat rhinitis. Commonly used ones include loratadine, cetirizine, ebastine, desloratadine, and levocetirizine. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Loratadine: A second-generation antihistamine, it is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and effectively relieves symptoms of rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal itching. It has minimal sedative effects, so most people can take it without significant impact on daily activities. It is suitable for both adults and children.

2. Cetirizine: Also a second-generation antihistamine, it works quickly and significantly alleviates allergic symptoms of rhinitis. Some users may experience mild drowsiness; therefore, it is recommended to take it at night to avoid interference with daytime work or study.

3. Ebastine: After oral intake, it is converted in the body into an active metabolite that exerts its therapeutic effect. It has a long duration of action, requiring only once-daily dosing. It effectively reduces allergic reactions associated with rhinitis and has relatively few side effects, making it suitable for individuals needing long-term control of rhinitis symptoms.

4. Desloratadine: This is the active metabolite of loratadine, offering stronger antiallergic effects with a lower required dose. It places less burden on the body and causes even less sedation, making it ideal for patients who do not respond well to loratadine or are concerned about side effects.

5. Levocetirizine: The active enantiomer of cetirizine, it provides superior antiallergic efficacy compared to cetirizine, with faster onset and longer-lasting effects. It also has a lower incidence of side effects and is especially suitable for individuals who poorly tolerate cetirizine.

Before using antihistamines for rhinitis, it is important to confirm whether your specific type of rhinitis is appropriate for such treatment, avoiding blind medication use. If symptoms persist or adverse reactions occur after taking the medication, seek medical advice promptly and adjust the treatment plan under medical guidance. Additionally, avoid exposure to known allergens.

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