What should I do if allergy meds stop working?

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Board-certified allergist discussing personalized allergy treatment options.

 

You’re doing everything right—taking over-the-counter antihistamines, using nasal sprays and even avoiding known triggers. But despite your best efforts, the allergy symptoms keep coming. Sound familiar? If you’re struggling with seasonal or year-round allergies in the Philadelphia region, South Jersey or Delaware, you’re not alone.

For many people, allergy medications work well at first…until they don’t. If you’re still sneezing, congested or itchy despite taking your usual allergy medicine, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Long-term allergy solutions can help you find relief.

 

Why Allergy Medications Stop Working

Your allergies and causes are as unique as you. Over-the-counter allergy medications may stop working because…

  • Your Allergies May Have Changed: Allergies can evolve. You may have developed new sensitivities, or your current allergies may have become more severe. Moving to a new environment—especially one with different pollens or mold levels—can also expose you to new triggers your current medication doesn’t address.
  • You’re Not Treating the Inflammation: While antihistamines and decongestants can temporarily block symptoms, they don’t address the underlying inflammation in your immune system that drives allergies. Without controlling the root cause, symptoms may return or worsen over time.
  • Improper Medication Use or Timing: Some allergy medications work best when taken consistently and before symptoms appear. Taking them only when symptoms are at their worst may not be enough. Nasal sprays, for example, often take a few days to become fully effective.
  • Tolerance or Resistance: Though not common, some people may develop tolerance to certain antihistamines when used long-term. This doesn’t mean your body is “immune,” but the meds may simply become less effective at managing chronic symptoms.

 

What You Can Do If Allergy Meds Stop Working

If your current allergy medications aren’t doing the job, don’t give up. There are several effective next steps to consider:

See a Board-Certified Allergist

A board-certified allergist can help pinpoint exactly what’s causing your symptoms through detailed testing. Many people discover they’re allergic to things they didn’t suspect—like dust mites, pet dander, mold or tree pollen. With this information, your allergist can create a personalized treatment plan to target your specific triggers.

Consider Prescription Treatments

If over-the-counter options aren’t enough, your allergist may prescribe:

  • Stronger antihistamines
  • Nasal corticosteroids
  • Leukotriene modifiers (helpful for people with both allergies and asthma)
  • Combination therapies for more comprehensive symptom control

These options often have better results for patients with moderate to severe allergies.

 

Try Immunotherapy

For long-term relief, allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be your best option. This treatment gradually exposes your immune system to allergens in small doses, training your body to become less reactive over time.

Immunotherapy is often recommended for people whose allergies are not well controlled with medications alone.

 

Environmental Changes Can Make a Big Difference

In addition to medical treatments, small changes can help create an allergy-free home to reduce exposure and relieve symptoms:

  • Use a HEPA filter in your bedroom and main living areas
  • Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
  • Shower after spending time outdoors
  • Wash bedding weekly in hot water
  • Use dust-mite-proof pillow and mattress covers

If you have pet allergies, your allergist can provide specific strategies to reduce contact with those triggers.

 

When to Seek Help

If any of the following apply to you, it’s time to talk to an allergist:

  • You’ve tried multiple medications with little relief
  • Symptoms are interfering with sleep, school or work
  • You’re experiencing side effects from medications
  • You suspect your allergies are getting worse over time

You don’t have to live with chronic symptoms—there are advanced treatment options available that can help. At Allergy & Asthma Specialists, our board-certified allergists in the greater Philadelphia area can create a personalized plan for lasting allergy relief.

 

Find Relief That Lasts

Allergy relief is closer than you think! With experienced, board-certified allergists across Philadelphia and surrounding communities, Allergy & Asthma Specialists can help you take the next step toward lasting allergy relief. Schedule an appointment today to explore customized treatment options that help you breathe easier.

 

About Family Allergy & Asthma

Founded in 1979, Family Allergy & Asthma’s practice network of allergy and asthma specialists provides high-quality, reliable and lasting allergy relief throughout Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, and includes affiliates Allergy & Asthma Specialists (AAS), Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida (AAAF) and Arkansas Allergy and Asthma Clinic (AAAC). For more information, visit www.familyallergy.com, and follow Family Allergy & Asthma on Facebook, Instagram and X.