Health Wellness Lifestyle

Top-Rated Non-Drowsy Over-the-Counter Allergy Medications That Won’t Cause Fatigue

Discover the best over-the-counter allergy medications that provide relief without causing drowsiness. Learn about effective non-sedating options.

By Agnes • • 4 min read

If you need allergy relief without feeling sluggish, these over-the-counter options are standouts for daytime use. They’re widely recommended by allergy specialists and designed to minimize sedation at labeled doses. Always follow the package directions and talk to your clinician if you have chronic conditions, take other medicines, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  1. Fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy)
  1. Loratadine (Claritin, Alavert)
  1. Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray (Flonase Allergy Relief)
  • Why it’s non-drowsy: Intranasal corticosteroids act locally in the nose and are considered non-sedating. They’re first-line for nasal allergy symptoms. Source: AAAAI intranasal steroids guide https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/drug-guide/intranasal-steroids
  • Best for: Stuffy nose, sneezing, runny nose, and itching—especially when congestion is a big problem.
  • Good to know: Daily use works best; benefits increase over several days. Check label for priming and dosing instructions.
  1. Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray (Nasacort Allergy 24HR)
  • Why it’s non-drowsy: Like other intranasal corticosteroids, it targets the nose with minimal systemic effects and no expected sedation. Source: AAAAI intranasal steroids guide https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/drug-guide/intranasal-steroids
  • Best for: Multi-symptom nasal allergies, including congestion.
  • Good to know: Use daily as directed; avoid blowing your nose for a few minutes after spraying for best effect.
  1. Budesonide Nasal Spray (Rhinocort Allergy)
  • Why it’s non-drowsy: Another intranasal corticosteroid option with a non-sedating profile at labeled use. Source: AAAAI intranasal steroids guide https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/drug-guide/intranasal-steroids
  • Best for: Persistent nasal symptoms and congestion relief without fatigue.
  • Good to know: Side effects are typically local (dryness, nose irritation). Aim slightly away from the center of the nose when spraying.
  1. Cromolyn Sodium Nasal Spray (NasalCrom)
  1. Ketotifen Ophthalmic Antihistamine Eye Drops (Zaditor, Alaway)
  • Why it’s non-drowsy: Applied locally to the eyes for allergic itch/redness; not expected to cause systemic sedation. Source: MedlinePlus (ketotifen ophthalmic) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601240.html
  • Best for: Itchy, watery allergy eyes when you want clear, alert vision during the day.
  • Good to know: Follow the label for 8–12 hour dosing. Remove contact lenses before use and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting.

What to avoid if you’re sensitive to fatigue

Quick tips to stay clear-headed

  • Dose timing matters: If anything makes you a bit sleepy, take it in the evening (only if the label allows once-daily use).
  • Keep it single-ingredient: Start with antihistamines or nasal sprays without decongestants; add a decongestant only if necessary and tolerated.
  • Pair wisely: Intranasal steroids plus a non-drowsy antihistamine can be more effective than either alone for many people.
  • Track your response: Everyone metabolizes medications differently. If one “non-drowsy” option still makes you tired, switch to another in this list.

Sources