Orders placed after 10pm on 19 December will be dispatched from 27 December onwards. Orders placed after 10pm on 28 December will be dispatched from 2 January (subject to approval).



Hayfever relief medicines
Non-drowsy antihistamines relieve sneezing and itch, while steroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation and congestion. Eye drops calm irritated, watery eyes.
What is hayfever and how do you treat it?
Hayfever (allergic rhinitis) is an immune response to airborne allergens like pollen, house-dust mites or animal dander. This triggers histamine and local inflammation, causing sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, a runny nose and congestion.
Antihistamines block the histamine response to reduce sneezing and itch. Steroid nasal sprays reduce nasal inflammation and congestion when used daily. Eye drops help when eye symptoms dominate.
Many people benefit from combination therapy, for example a once-daily non-drowsy antihistamine plus a daily steroid nasal spray. Begin treatment before your usual trigger season and continue throughout the period of exposure.

Frequently Asked
Questions
What is hayfever?
An allergic reaction to airborne allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, animal dander) causing sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, runny nose and congestion.
Do I need tablets, a nasal spray, or both?
Tablets help general symptoms; steroid nasal sprays are best for blocked nose. Many people use both. Add eye drops if eyes are the main issue.
When should I start treatment?
Ideally 1–2 weeks before your usual trigger season and continue daily through the season.
How long do steroid nasal sprays take to work?
Some relief within 12–24 hours; full benefit typically 2–7 days of consistent use.
Will antihistamines make me drowsy?
Non-drowsy options like fexofenadine and loratadine are least sedating; cetirizine can cause mild drowsiness in some.
Can I combine treatments?
Yes — combinations (e.g., antihistamine + steroid spray) are often more effective.
Is this safe with my other medicines?
Usually, but it depends. Tell us everything you take; our prescriber will check for interactions.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Please consult your GP/midwife or a pharmacist. We don’t currently prescribe online in these cases.
Common side effects?
Antihistamines: headache, dry mouth, occasional drowsiness. Nasal steroids: irritation or nosebleeds. Eye drops: brief stinging/irritation.
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms are severe/persistent despite treatment, or you have wheeze, chest tightness, fever, facial pain, or frequent nosebleeds.









