Which type of medication is most commonly used for allergies?

Antihistamines are the most commonly used medications for allergies because they specifically target the histamine response in the body, which plays a key role in allergic reactions. When an allergen enters the body, the immune system releases histamines, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives. Antihistamines work by blocking these histamines from binding to their receptors, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with allergies.

In contrast, other classes of medications do not primarily address allergic reactions. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not alleviate allergy symptoms. Analgesics are pain relievers and do not impact the histamine pathway or allergy symptoms. Antidepressants are used to treat mood disorders and are not designed to manage allergies. Thus, antihistamines stand out as the most effective choice for allergy relief.