Question:
I am pre-op and looking for a good allergy medication I can take now and as a post-op

I've been using Flonase for a couple of years now and it works fine for winter allergy symptoms but not for summer. I have used Claritin in the past but stopped before my last sinus surgery, when I was started on the Flonase. I know there are a couple of new allergy meds available but want to know people's experiences with them...especially people who also take antidepressants. Right now I'm using Tylenol Allergy/Sinus and it helps the headachey/stuffy feeling but not much else...and it's very drying. HELP! Thanks much - Anna p.s. I plan to call my PCP on Monday so any suggestions would be appreciated!    — Anna L. (posted on June 9, 2002)

June 9, 2002
Hi! I take Zyrtec (and flonaise) and I also take the antidepressant, Celexa. I have had no problems taking them together at all. The zyrtec pill is tiny and I don't think you'd have any problem taking it after surgery, I mean it's REALLY tiny! Anyway, if you do have a problem swallowing it, it also comes in liquid form and tastes like strawberry bananna. I have not expereinced any side effects from the Zyrtec at all and my sinuses are much better. Hope this helps :) Maria
   — Maria S.

June 9, 2002
Did you have relief with the Claritin? If you want to try it again post op, I wanted to let you know that it comes in a Reditab. This 10mg tablet dissolves in your mouth. My son takes them and has had a lot of success. Hope this helps. Shelley
   — Shelley.

June 11, 2002
I have had good luck with the New Clarinex. It is supposedly a newer form of claritin, but the Claritin made me drowsy (even though the say it isn't supposed too) but so far the Clarinex hasn't made me sleepy or bothered my pouch or anything. Good Luck.
   — Dell H.