Allergies affect millions of people worldwide and range from seasonal hay fever to year-round symptoms caused by house dust mites or pet dander. In many cases, allergy tablets are the first choice for quickly and effectively relieving symptoms. But what active ingredients are there? How do they work? What are the possible side effects? And are there perhaps even alternatives, such as taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus paracasei LP-33 or GMNL-133 , which can have a similar effect to antihistamines? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about allergy tablets: from classic antihistamines to new therapeutic approaches and holistic options.
What are allergy tablets?
Allergy tablets are medications used to treat allergic reactions. They block or modulate the immune system's overreaction to harmless substances such as pollen, house dust, or pet dander. Symptoms range from sneezing, itching, and rashes to breathing problems.
The most common types of allergy tablets
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Antihistamines (1st and 2nd generation)
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Mast cell stabilizers
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Leukotriene receptor antagonists
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Corticosteroids (oral form)
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Probiotics as adjunctive therapy
Antihistamines: The classic allergy treatment
Antihistamines are the most commonly used medications for allergic reactions. They block the effects of histamine, a neurotransmitter released in large quantities during allergies.
First-generation antihistamines
These act quickly but often cause drowsiness. Examples include dimethindene and clemastine . They cross the blood-brain barrier and thus have a sedative effect.
Second-generation antihistamines
They are more modern, less drowsy, and have a more targeted effect. Examples:
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Loratadine
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Cetirizine
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Levocetirizin
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Fexofenadine
These medications are available without a prescription and are usually well tolerated.
Other drug groups
Mast cell stabilizers
They prevent mast cells from releasing histamine. They act less quickly and are therefore usually used preventively. Well-known active ingredients include cromoglycic acid and nedocromil .
Leukotriene receptor antagonists
These block other inflammatory substances besides histamine. They are often used for allergic asthma or severe cases. Active ingredient: Montelukast .
Oral corticosteroids
Strong anti-inflammatories like prednisolone are only used for very severe allergic reactions. Due to their side effects, they are only recommended for short periods of time.
Side effects of classic allergy tablets
As with all medications, allergy tablets can cause side effects. The most common are:
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Fatigue (especially with first-generation antihistamines)
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dry mouth
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Headache
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Gastrointestinal complaints
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dizziness
The following risks are also possible with corticosteroids:
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Weight gain
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high blood pressure
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Osteoporosis with long-term use
Probiotics: A natural alternative?
More and more studies show that an imbalanced intestinal flora is linked to the development of allergies. Taking probiotics could help regulate the immune system and mitigate allergic reactions.
Lactobacillus paracasei LP-33
This probiotic strain has been shown in studies to significantly relieve hay fever symptoms. Its effect is comparable to mild antihistamines—without their side effects. LP-33 modulates the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects.
GMNL-133
This strain also belongs to the species Lactobacillus paracasei . Studies show a reduction in allergic symptoms with regular use. The synergistic effect with conventional anti-allergy medications is particularly interesting.
Mechanism of action of probiotics in allergies
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Regulation of the immune system (TH1/TH2 balance)
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Strengthening the intestinal barrier
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Reduction of inflammatory messengers
How useful is the combination of antihistamine and probiotic?
Some experts now recommend a combination of conventional medication and probiotic support. While the antihistamine relieves acute symptoms, a probiotic can have a long-term regulating effect and reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms.
Table: Comparison of allergy tablets and probiotics
| category | Example active ingredients | Effect | Side effects | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antihistamines 1st Gen | Dimetindene, Clemastine | Fast relief | Fatigue, dizziness | Sedative, older generation |
| 2nd generation antihistamines | Loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine | Targeted, less drowsy | Headache, dry mouth | Well tolerated, non-prescription |
| Mast cell stabilizers | Cromoglicic acid, nedocromil | Preventive effect | Rarely | Requires regular use |
| Leukotriene antagonists | Montelukast | Anti-inflammatory | Abdominal pain, sleep disorders | For asthma and severe allergies |
| Corticosteroids (oral) | Prednisolone | Strong anti-inflammatory | Numerous with long-term administration | Only useful in severe cases |
| Probiotics | LP-33, GMNL-133 | Immunoregulating | Very rare, well tolerated | Long-lasting effect possible |
Conclusion: Allergy tablets are effective – probiotics can do more
Conventional allergy tablets are indispensable when it comes to quickly relieving acute symptoms. However, those seeking long-term relief and avoiding side effects should consider probiotics such as Lactobacillus paracasei LP-33 or GMNL-133 as natural support. The combination of both therapeutic approaches offers the greatest potential for allergy sufferers: providing acute relief and long-term stabilization.
Especially during allergy season, it's worth rethinking your treatment plan and, if necessary, consulting with a doctor or alternative practitioner. Those who address their allergies holistically have a better chance of living a symptom-free life.
