Condition guide
Hay Fever
Sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose disrupting your day? Find the right antihistamine or nasal spray for your hay fever symptoms in under 2 minutes.
Find the right medicineTreatment and relief options
- Antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) for sneezing and itching
- Intranasal corticosteroids (take several days for full effect) or saline for congestion
- Eye drops (antihistamine or mast-cell stabiliser) for itchy, watery eyes
- Avoid known allergens when possible
- Take antihistamines before exposure for prevention
Top picks
Top pick
Telfast Hayfever Allergy Relief
A newer, less-sedating antihistamine for sneezing and itching that you can take before allergen exposure rather than waiting for symptoms to start.
Best for congestion
Flixonase Allergy & Hayfever 24 Hour Nasal Spray
An intranasal corticosteroid for a blocked, congested nose — start it several days ahead, as it takes several days to reach full effect.
General information only — check with your pharmacist or GP before starting a new medicine. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
We may earn a commission from these links. It never affects our rankings.
See a doctor or pharmacist if…
- Severe breathing difficulty or wheezing
- Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks without improvement
- High fever or green/yellow nasal discharge
- Facial pain or swelling
Good to know
Understanding Hay Fever Triggers
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is essentially your immune system overreacting to particles in the air. In Australia, the most common triggers are:
- Spring (Sept-Nov): Grass pollens (ryegrass is a major culprit).
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Grass and weed pollens.
- Autumn/Winter: Mould spores and dust mites often take over when pollen counts drop.
Pro Tip: If you know a high-pollen day is coming (check your local weather app), take your antihistamine before you leave the house. It's much easier to prevent the reaction than to stop it once the cascade of histamine has started.
Frequently asked questions
Take them before allergen exposure or at the first sign of symptoms. Non-drowsy options work well during the day.
Related conditions
Related guides
Allergy & hayfever13 min read
Hayfever or Cold? How to Tell the Difference in Australia
Sneezing non-stop but not sure why? We compare hayfever and cold symptoms side by side, with a quick checklist and the best OTC options available in Australia.
Allergy & hayfever12 min read
Hay Fever Treatment Australia: Complete Guide (2026)
Antihistamines, nasal sprays or eye drops — what suits your symptoms? Covers AU pollen season by region, thunderstorm asthma, kids, pregnancy and GP advice.
Allergy & hayfever14 min read
Best Antihistamine Australia: Zyrtec vs Telfast vs Claratyne (2026)
Zyrtec vs Telfast vs Claratyne? We compare cetirizine, fexofenadine, and loratadine on drowsiness, onset, price, and which may help relieve your symptoms.
Medical disclaimer
This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.