April 13, 2026, 3:14 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Starting in March, pollen season begins in Germany, especially for early bloomers like hazel and alder. Allergy sufferers often notice this through typical hay fever symptoms: itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. While we can hardly influence the pollen count, there are remedies that provide noticeable relief. FITBOOK consulted a dermatologist about active ingredients that sufferers can obtain over the counter that reliably help.
Typical Symptoms and More of a Pollen Allergy
A pollen allergy, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by allergens. Colloquially, it is also called hay fever. Those affected primarily react to pollen from trees and grasses, sometimes to several types simultaneously. When pollen enters the mucous membranes, the body releases the messenger substance histamine, which promotes typical inflammatory reactions. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Symptoms include frequent sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and red and watery eyes. Additionally, itching in the mouth and throat, on the lips, or even in the ears can occur.
Medications Can Provide Noticeable Relief
At least in the medium term, something can be done about the symptoms. There are effective, over-the-counter medications that provide noticeable relief for a pollen allergy. However, anyone who has taken allergy pills before may be familiar with their downside: one of the most common side effects is fatigue. Therefore, FITBOOK asked dermatologist Dr. med. Timm Golüke which active ingredients he recommends that reliably help without causing excessive drowsiness.
Dermatologist Recommends Second-Generation Antihistamines
Dr. Golüke recommends so-called second-generation antihistamines. These modern, mostly over-the-counter antiallergics alleviate allergy symptoms for about 24 hours without causing the strong drowsiness that can occur with first-generation medications. However, a slight sedative effect is not entirely ruled out.
The explanation: Antihistamines block the H1 histamine receptors, which are the binding sites for the messenger substance histamine. However, histamine also has a “wakefulness” function in the brain, supporting alertness and concentration. The modern active ingredients of the second generation penetrate the brain significantly less, although they still partially cross the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, some people are more sensitive to these effects than others. “I therefore recommend to my patients the active ingredient with which the fewest users complain of drowsiness,” says Dr. Golüke.
Often the Best Choice: Loratadine and Desloratadine
According to Dr. Golüke, loratadine causes the fewest side effects. Patients often encounter the active ingredient in product names—many preparations are named after it (e.g., Loratadin-1A Pharma). The medication is taken in the morning and unfolds its effect throughout the day.1 The active ingredient desloratadine is the active metabolite of loratadine. It is often recommended due to its higher bioavailability and generally works somewhat stronger and more stable throughout the day (e.g., in preparations like Lorano Pro).
Cetirizine and Levocetirizine
Cetirizine is also available over the counter and is effective against typical symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itching. However, it can cause drowsiness, so an evening intake is often recommended.2 Levocetirizine, the pure active ingredient enantiomer of cetirizine, works similarly reliably but is somewhat less sedating and therefore better tolerated.
Fexofenadine
The active ingredient fexofenadine is less well-known but causes little sedation in most users, making it well-suited for daytime use.
Important: While Dr. Golüke often prescribes loratadine in his practice, he emphasizes that the “best choice” is individually different. Some allergy sufferers respond better to one antihistamine than another.
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Herbal Supporters Against Pollen Allergy
Upon FITBOOK’s inquiry, Dr. Golüke confirmed that various herbal remedies can also have a supportive effect. Certain plant extracts, like butterbur, have shown a slight reduction in histamine release in studies. Nettle is also traditionally used for its antiallergic properties. Teas made from chamomile or other anti-inflammatory plants can soothe the mucous membranes. However, the effectiveness of herbal active ingredients is not as well-documented as that of traditional medications. They can only be used as a supplement and do not replace the proven medicinal therapy with antihistamines.
What Else You Can Do Against Hay Fever
Those affected can reduce their symptoms beyond taking antihistamines with small everyday measures. Washing hair daily and wearing scarves or caps prevent pollen from sticking to the hair. Clothes should not be taken off in the bedroom, and laundry should not be dried outside, as pollen can cling to the fabric. Pollen screens on windows further reduce the entry of pollen into the home. Also, paying attention to the pollen count can help: during high pollen counts, it is advisable to avoid places where the triggering pollen is particularly prevalent.