Question:
Anyone take a decongestant for allergies that's easy to swallow?

I used to take Claritin-D but I switched to Zyrtec (no decongestant) because of blood pressure problems. Now that I am post-op I am having a lot of problems with congestion making me gag and have dry heaves, so I need to go back on a decongestant. But I know a lot of them are big and I remember Claritin-D said not to crush or break. Anyone know of anything that would be easier to take? The OTC sudafed type medications don't last overnight, so they don't help.    — sheltie (posted on July 4, 2002)

July 4, 2002
Hi! Try Diamtapp liquid (childrens). This works great. Surgeon recommended. I hope this helps. Tracy
   — tracyr

July 4, 2002
I use Drixoral cold and sinus- 12hr tab, approx m&m size. No problems swallowing or tolerating it.
   — Jean K.

July 4, 2002
It sounds as if you need an anti-histamine (to dry up secretions) rather than a decongestant (to un-stuff your nose.) Plain Claritin is what I take. It's quite small and works great for my allergies and post-nasal drip. No blood pressure effects either, since it's the "D" part of Claritin-D that raises blood pressure.
   — Sheri K.

July 4, 2002
I take a ~liquid~ allergy med when I need it... I purchase it at drugstore.com but you can also find it in the GNC stores.. It's call BioRemedy Allergy Relief... it costs about $9 a bottle... you put the liquid under your tongue when symptons start... it works WONDERS for me... it's natural... and you don't have to worry about the size of a pill... check with you doctor... It may be your answer... Good Luck to you...
   — California J.

July 5, 2002
Stacey,I used to take Allegra for allergies. I stopped, to many problems with medications. I now use Vicks Vapor rub, Mom's always used this on kids.. You can use it on your chest or around the nose area. It helped my breathing completely. Good luck!
   — Mary H.

July 5, 2002
I would ask my Dr. or pharmacist- they know what is all out there & what would work best. Also, Claritin comes in liquid form.
   — Terri Z.

July 5, 2002
Hello, Well I know for a fact that Claritin has a tab that disolves in your mouth...so I'm thinking maybe zyrtec might have one that is similar. Has your blood pressure improved since the surgery? If so, maybe you could try the Claritin again. Just some thoughts....
   — Morna B.

July 8, 2002
Claritin Redi tabs...melt in your mouth..that is what I give to my son. Zyrtec comes in liquid...but be really careful with all liquid meds, most have a sugar base. Some you can request sugar free...they make them for diabetics. Personally, if I could not do the pills, I would do the redi- tabs. Good Luck, hope that you feel better.
   — Vicki L.