What to know about OTC allergy meds and flying?

[AggieMike88]

I don't know what is in the local atmosphere, but this warmer weather around DFW has inserted something that nailed me with a pollen, spore, or dust allergy reaction. I've taken some OTC Claritan with dinner and going to bed early.

But this got me thinking that I really don't know what I should about this class of OTC meds and flying. So help me (and others) out.

What's to know about these class of OTC's. Are there any that impose a stand down period before flying? If yes, which ones and for how long? Anything else we should all know from a safety perspective?

 

[gismo]

I don't know what is in the local atmosphere, but this warmer weather around DFW has inserted something that nailed me with a pollen, spore, or dust allergy reaction. I've taken some OTC Claritan with dinner and going to bed early.

But this got me thinking that I really don't know what I should about this class of OTC meds and flying. So help me (and others) out.

What's to know about these class of OTC's. Are there any that impose a stand down period before flying? If yes, which ones and for how long? Anything else we should all know from a safety perspective?

I haven't checked lately but AFaIK Loratadine (Claritin) is approved provided you have no adverse side effects and that's what I take regularly. I was originally prescribed Zertex but at the time that was on the no-fly list (and probably still is).

 

[bbchien]

Claritin (+/-d) and Allegra (+/-d) are both just fine.

 

[AggieMike88]

If those are the okay ones, what are the bad ones?

 

[bbchien]

Zyrtec.

 

[ja_user]

If those are the okay ones, what are the bad ones?

Whichever one actually helps

 

[Rose2012]

If those are the okay ones, what are the bad ones?

Benadryl.

I use both Claritin and Nasonex (which is not OTC of course, but works grea tfor me). Effective and no issues with flying.

 

[John221us]

I find Claritan and Allegra to be pretty ineffective. A Neti Pot sinus rinse gives some relief, especially before bed.

 

[35 AoA]

I've flown while taking Claratin as well as when taking Allegra. Both under subscription dosages (stupid grass pollen allergies). Never had a problem getting an up-chit/medical with either, civilian or military side of the house.