Antihistamines in the Military: Are Zyrtec or Claritin Allowed?

Are antihistamines like Zyrtec or Claritin allowed in the military? This is a common question among soldiers and veterans, especially those who have allergies or other seasonal ailments. Here's the lowdown on antihistamines and military regulations to help clarify any confusion.

Are Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines Allowed in the Military?

Most over-the-counter drugs, including antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin, are entirely permissible in the military. As a soldier, you can take almost any OTC medicine that any civilian can take. This applies to both Zyrtec and Claritin, which are among the most commonly used allergy medications.

Army Prescriptions and Antihistamines

When serving in the military, particularly in the Army, you may encounter situations where you can obtain antihistamines via prescription. For example, during my 30-year career, I was prescribed Claritin for a significant period of time. Initially, I had to endure my allergies for about 10 years due to restrictions on steroidal nasal sprays. However, over time, the understanding evolved, and it was recognized that antihistamines like Claritin and Flonase sprays were more suitable options.

Considerations for Non-Emergency Situations

In non-emergency situations, the use of antihistamines is allowed, but it is always a good practice to inform your healthcare provider about the potential effects of these medications, including the possible "hangover" effect that occurs after use. This can help you manage side effects and ensure optimal performance during your duty hours.

Consulting Military Medical Providers

If your friend or fellow soldier has concerns about antihistamine use, the best course of action is to consult with their military medical providers. Medical professionals can provide personalized advice based on individual health conditions and current regulations. Whether it's a pulmonary or allergy doctor, they can issue a prescription if necessary and inform you about any restrictions related to air travel.

Availability and Dispensing

Antihistamines are readily available in all military bases. Base exchanges often stock a variety of OTC medications, including antihistamines like Claritin and Zyrtec. Even if a base exchange does not stock a specific medication, you can usually obtain a prescription and have it filled at a pharmacy. In non-emergency situations, this process is straightforward and efficient.

When I was in the military, the pharmacy would deliver prescriptions directly to the company, making it easy for soldiers to manage their medications without the need for additional travel. This is just one aspect of the military's comprehensive healthcare system designed to support troops in various health needs, including allergy management.

Understanding these regulations and the availability of antihistamines can help ensure that soldiers and veterans have the necessary tools to manage their health effectively, including allergy symptoms. By staying informed and consulting with medical providers, individuals can make the most of the resources available to them within the military healthcare system.