Which medication class is often utilized to treat allergic rhinitis?

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis because they work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that the body releases during an allergic reaction. By inhibiting histamine's effects, antihistamines can alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes, which are all hallmark signs of allergic rhinitis.

This medication class includes both first-generation antihistamines, which may cause sedation (like diphenhydramine), and second-generation antihistamines, which are less likely to cause drowsiness and provide a longer duration of action (such as cetirizine and loratadine). These medications are often available over the counter and are effective for managing both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.

In the context of other choices, decongestants can temporarily relieve nasal congestion but do not address the underlying allergic response directly. Antivirals are used to treat viral infections, and beta-blockers are primarily used for cardiovascular conditions and do not have application in treating allergic rhinitis. Therefore, antihistamines are the most appropriate option for addressing the symptoms of allergic rhinitis effectively.