Convenient access to Hay fever Treatments With GP24.

Our prescription service costs €25

This service is available to patients anywhere in Republic of Ireland.

Yes - this service is based on the same patient-doctor confidentiality that you would expect in a face-to-face consultation.

If you’re not entirely sure about your condition and have not had a previous prescription, it is recommended that you first chat with our doctor using either our Video Consultation or Phone consultation services first.

Hay fever, medically known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergy caused by pollen. It typically flares up during the spring and summer months, when pollen levels are at their highest. This condition affects millions of people and can significantly impact daily life if left untreated.

Common Symptoms of Hay Fever:

• Frequent sneezing

• Runny or congested nose

• Itchy, red, or watery eyes

• Irritated or scratchy throat

• If you have asthma, hay fever may worsen your symptoms, leading to wheezing or shortness of breath

In some cases, similar symptoms can occur year-round. This is known as perennial allergic rhinitis, often triggered by allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores.

You may be eligible to request hay fever treatment through GP24.ie if you:

• Are over 18 years old

• Have a previous diagnosis of hay fever by a healthcare professional

• Require a repeat prescription for a commonly prescribed hay fever medication

• Are not experiencing a medical emergency or severe symptoms requiring urgent care

Please note: This service is not suitable for initial diagnosis of hay fever.

When clinically appropriate, we can offer a range of effective hay fever treatments, including antihistamine tablets, steroid nasal sprays, and combination nasal sprays.

• Antihistamine tablets work by blocking histamine — the chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. This helps reduce sneezing, itching, runny nose, and other hay fever symptoms.

• Steroid nasal sprays target inflammation in the nasal passages caused by allergens. They help relieve nasal congestion, irritation, and swelling, offering long-lasting symptom control when used regularly.

• If symptoms persist despite using a steroid spray alone, a combination nasal spray (which contains both a steroid and an antihistamine) may be prescribed. This dual-action approach is often more effective in managing moderate to severe hay fever.
  
  

All treatments are prescribed based on your individual needs and allergy severity.

Most hay fever treatments are well-tolerated, but like all medications, they may cause side effects in some individuals.

Antihistamine Tablets

 Antihistamines are generally safe, but some people may experience:

• Drowsiness or fatigue (especially with older-generation antihistamines)

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Headaches

To minimise drowsiness, it’s often recommended to take your tablet in the evening.

Steroid Nasal Sprays

Side effects are usually mild and localised, and may include:

• Nosebleeds

• Irritation or soreness in the nostrils or throat

• Headaches

• Unpleasant taste in the mouth after use

Using the spray correctly can help reduce these effects.

 Combination Nasal Sprays (Steroid + Antihistamine)

These may cause similar side effects and, in some cases, can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery, particularly if taken alongside alcohol. Be cautious until you know how the medication affects you personally.

Some antihistamine medications—especially tablets, and to a lesser extent nasal sprays—can cause drowsiness.

This may impact your ability to drive, cycle, or operate heavy machinery safely. Always check how your medication affects you before engaging in these activities.

Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately. You can also contact us for follow-up support or guidance from one of our GPs.

There are several effective steps you can take to minimise your symptoms.

1. Identify and Avoid Your Triggers

The best way to manage hay fever is to limit your exposure to the allergens that set off your symptoms—most commonly, pollen or pet hair. If you know what triggers your hay fever, try to avoid it as much as possible.

2. Understand Pollen Seasons

Different types of pollen are more prevalent at certain times of the year:

• Tree pollen: March to May

• Grass pollen: May to July

• Weed pollen: June to September

Stay informed about the pollen count in your area by reviewing the pollen count in your area.

3. Practical Tips to Reduce Exposure

• Stay indoors when the pollen count is high (typically above 50).

• Keep windows and doors closed at home and in your car to prevent pollen from entering.

• Shower and wash your hair after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your skin and hair.

• Apply a barrier balm (like petroleum jelly) around your nostrils to trap pollen before it enters your nose.

• Avoid drying clothes outside, as pollen can stick to fabrics.

• Limit contact with other allergens such as cigarette smoke and pet hair, which can worsen hay fever symptoms.

Complete an Online Questionnaire: Fill out a secure, confidential medical assessment form detailing your symptoms and health history

Medical Review: An Irish-registered doctor will review your information to determine if treatment is appropriate for you

Prescription Issuance: If suitable, a prescription will be sent directly to your chosen Irish pharmacy via secure Healthmail

Once your medical questionnaire is submitted, prescriptions are typically issued within 24 hours.

(Please note this may vary on weekends)

Your prescription will be sent electronically via the Healthmail system to the Irish pharmacy of your choice - you can nominate any pharmacy in Ireland to receive your prescription

Yes. To ensure your safety, you’ll need to complete a confidential health questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a Doctor before any prescription is issued.

Your medical information is reviewed only by Irish Medical Council Registered Doctors and is handled in line with GDPR and Irish data protection laws.

Yes. If you're eligible and your condition is well-controlled, you can request a repeat prescription for your usual hay fever medication via GP24.ie. You’ll need to complete a short medical questionnaire which will be reviewed by one of our GPs. If clinically appropriate, your prescription will be sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.