Hayfever advice: How to get full relief
Hayfever is very common and is best managed with over-the-counter treatments. The most effective approach is to use all three of the following together:
1. Antihistamine tablet
- Cetirizine: highly effective and inexpensive
- Fexofenadine: effective, with fewer side effects for some
- Loratadine: widely used, effective but less so than cetirizine
Tip: If one tablet per day isn’t working, you can take two daily (off-license), if needed.
2. Nasal spray
- Fluticasone propionate or mometasone furoate: most effective, once daily dosing
- Beclometasone: cheaper but less potent; requires twice daily use
Most people don’t use nasal sprays correctly so they are ineffective – (e.g. head tilted forward, not sniffing and correct angling of spray). Please watch this short video to check your technique:
3. Eye drops
Sodium cromoglicate: helps relieve itchy, watery eyes
Where to buy cheaply
For affordable hayfever treatments and deals, see:
If symptoms continue...
If you’ve been using all three treatments correctly for several weeks and symptoms still persist, please get in touch – but for most people, this combination works very well.
Steroid injections are not offered
- Annual steroid injections for hayfever are not available due to potential long-term risks and side effects. We strongly advise against seeking these privately – risks include bone thinning, weight gain, and immune suppression.
