AboutDr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D. Expertise I am a Doctor of Pharmacy and I am available to answer a variety of questions related to children's health and medicine ranging from the treatment of colic and cradle cap to allergies and acne. I am also the creator of the website "The Medicine Mom" at www.themedicinemom.com. Parents can e-mail me questions, read my monthly articles, and enjoy a laugh at "The Funny Farm."
Experience I am a Doctor of Pharmacy and mother of two wonderful girls. I work in a busy outpatient pharmacy clinic where I have the unique opportunity to counsel every patient that comes to my window.
Publications:
1)Drug Topics, Feb. 2006: "Why a Kiddie Corner Makes Sense"
2)Pharmacy Times,Date TBA, "How to Help Parents Cope with Colic
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Old Dominion University 1997
Doctor of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University 2002
Question Hi, I'm 16 and every morning when I wake up, I will have a runny nose, the insides of my mouth will itch, and I sneeze enough. During school my nose will keep running through out the day, and the itchy top of my mouth comes on and off. During school also I feel as if I can just fall asleep and I just need to get out of the class and go home. Are these allergies, or is there dust in my house and it affects me all day? Even in the night right before I go to bed my throat itches. If it is allergies can you recommend something. Thanks A lot.
Answer Hi Roshan,
It sounds like you are experiencing allergies. The most commonly used over-the-counter antihistamine is Claritin (loratadine). Unlike other older antihistamines, Claritin does not normally cause drowsiness.
You can buy it at any pharmacy and it is cheaper to buy the generic if available. Claritin will hopefully help with your sneezing, runny nose, and prevent any postnasal drip which may be causing the itching in your throat.
I hope this helps. If the Claritin doesn't seem to be working, you should probably see a doctor. Good Luck!
Best,
Dr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D.
www.themedicinemom.com
