What drug is often used to treat allergic rhinitis and is non-sedating?

Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis, which is characterized by symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. One of the key features of second-generation antihistamines, like fexofenadine, is that they are designed to be non-sedating. This means they are less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier and cause drowsiness compared to first-generation antihistamines.

The mechanism behind this is that fexofenadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors rather than those in the central nervous system, which helps to alleviate allergy symptoms without affecting alertness. This makes fexofenadine a preferred option for people who need to maintain their normal daily activities without the sedative effects often associated with allergy treatments.

In contrast, diphenhydramine, belonging to the first-generation class of antihistamines, is known for its sedative properties due to its ability to easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Epinephrine, while effective in treating severe allergic reactions, is not specifically aimed at allergic rhinitis. Hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, can help reduce inflammation but is not used as a first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis