Allergy season isn’t a future problem—it’s already underway.

As of March 20, 2026, Pollen.com shows national allergy and pollen levels at medium-high, with 27% of the country in that range. AccuWeather reports pollen ramping up in parts of the South and West, with tree pollen leading now, grass pollen expected to spike later in spring and early summer, and weed pollen likely to follow. (Pollen.com)

For pharmacies, demand won’t rise evenly. It builds in waves—by region, trigger, and symptom type. Some patients are looking for quick relief from sneezing and watery eyes, while others are already dealing with congestion, sleep disruption, or lingering symptoms that require more than a quick OTC solution.

What 2026 May Look Like Across the U.S.
This year’s pattern is especially regional:

• • South and West: tree pollen already active, including Southern California, southern Arizona, and much of the Gulf Coast.
  • Ohio Valley: likely to be one of the harder-hit areas, especially after spring rainfall.
  • Pacific Northwest: earlier-than-typical pollen with elevated levels expected in cities like Portland and Seattle.
  • Northern Plains and Great Lakes: grass pollen may spike as tree pollen fades, particularly in Chicago, St. Louis, and Minneapolis.
  • Rockies: potential for stronger weed pollen later in the season depending on rainfall patterns.
  • Parts of New England: tree pollen may run lower than average due to colder, drier conditions. 
(source AccuWeather)

AAFA’s 2026 Allergy Capitals report reinforces how widespread the pressure points are. Boise ranks No. 1, followed by San Diego, Tulsa, Provo, and Rochester, with additional high-impact markets including Raleigh, Spokane, Minneapolis, Richmond, Toledo, and Lakeland. (Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America)

What Pharmacies Should Be Ready For
Seasonal allergies are driven by the immune system’s response to triggers like pollen, typically showing up as:

• • sneezing and runny nose
  • nasal congestion
  • itchy, watery eyes
  • throat irritation

More than 106 million Americans are affected by allergies and/or asthma, according to AAFA. (Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America)

In practice, that translates into demand across several categories:

• • oral antihistamines for core symptom relief
  • intranasal corticosteroids for persistent or congestion-heavy cases
  • eye care products for irritation and tearing
  • saline and supportive options for ongoing symptom management (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)

A key point for pharmacy teams: intranasal corticosteroids are widely considered the most effective drug class for allergic rhinitis, particularly when congestion is a primary complaint. (ACAAI Patient) That distinction matters. Patients often shop for immediate relief, not long-term control—creating an opportunity for pharmacies to guide better outcomes.

Practical Guidance to Reinforce at the Counter
A few simple reminders can go a long way:

• • check local pollen forecasts and limit outdoor exposure when levels are high
  • keep windows closed during peak pollen periods
  • change clothes and shower after being outside
  • avoid touching eyes outdoors and wash hands before doing so indoors (CDC)

For nasal decongestant sprays, FDA guidance is clear: using them for more than a few days can lead to rebound congestion. Products containing pseudoephedrine also remain behind the counter and require ID due to federal regulations. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
These are small touchpoints, but during allergy season they help reduce repeat frustration and improve patient outcomes.

Why Timing Matters
This is the window where demand starts to build—but hasn’t fully peaked in most markets.
Tree pollen may drive the first wave, but grass and weed pollen will extend the season and broaden demand across categories. In many regions, the better move is to prepare early rather than react once volume spikes.

With regional variation this year, “allergy season” isn’t a single national moment—it’s a rolling cycle. Some markets are already feeling it. Others are just getting started.

Where Masters Fits In
That’s why we’re running our Allergy Season Deal Drop now.
We’re seeing increased movement across key categories and have pulled together pricing aligned to what pharmacies are already dispensing this time of year.
It’s not about replacing your primary—it’s about having coverage where it counts as demand builds.

Take a Look
If allergy-related products are already moving—or about to—it may be worth checking what’s available now before your next order. View the Allergy Deal Drop