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Anonymous
Fuck I just typed out a long response and my browser got retarded and I ended up losing it.
Anyways, antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin will not make you more susceptible to infections, viral or bacterial. The reason why is pretty complicated, but just know that allergies are indeed an immune response, but a different type of immune response. It's not the same as when your immune system encounters viruses or bacteria.
My suggestion: if you're only going to be exposed to dogs for the weekend, pick up Zyrtec-D (you have to ask for it at the pharmacy counter). I have pretty bad hay fever too, and it seems to work the best (I'm allergic to cat dander). The only side effects will be that it will probably raise your blood pressure a little. So if you have high blood pressure, you shouldn't take it. The reason why is because the "-D" part means "decongestant", and the decongestant they use - by virtue of how it works - will cause an increase in blood pressure. Another disadvantage is that it's expensive. I think 12 tablets will run you $13, which will last 6 days if you take it twice daily. One more suggestion: if you do take it, then swallow it at least 2 hours before you arrive at the cottage.
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