Allergies are the most common chronic health condition affecting New Zealanders. At least 1 in 5 people are affected, and this is predicted to rise. Allergies are caused by the immune system overreacting to an irritant like pollen or animal hair that is otherwise harmless to most people.

Allergic rhinitis (hayfever) is the most common symptom of allergies. It causes a recurrent runny, stuffy or itchy nose, and frequent sneezing. It can also affect eyes, sinuses, throat and ears.

Fortunately there are many products available to treat and prevent allergy symptoms:

• nasal sprays

• antihistamine tablets

• eye drops

• saline rinse for the sinuses

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are used for the treatment of symptoms associated with allergies including sneezing, itching and watery eyes. They are also used to treat insect bites and inflammatory conditions of the skin.

Antihistamines are more effective when taken regularly as a prevention, before symptoms occur, rather than only when you have symptoms.

Some hayfever tablets can make you drowsy and should not be taken if you are driving or working. The newer non-sedating antihistamines are the most popular treatment for hayfever as they are safe to take in the morning, before you go outside.

Usually, antihistamine tablets start to work within 30 minutes after being taken and tend to be most effective within 1-2 hours after being taken.

If you take the same antihistamine product for a long time, you may start to find it does not work as well as it used to.

Levrix Tablets

Levrix clears your nose and relieves hayfever fast.

Levrix contains Levocetirizine, a second generation antihistamine treatment that may help to provide relief from seasonal allergic rhinitis as well as persistent allergic rhinitis and urticaria or hives. Clinical studies on Levrix show an 83% improvement in clearing a blocked nose for allergy sufferers.

What makes Levrix different from other antihistamine brands?

• Is fast acting – relief begins in 20 minutes

• Double action for hayfever and blocked nose

• Relieves itchy skin

• One tablet can provide 24 hours of relief

• Suitable for children from 6 years of age