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Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ
Depending on where you live, allergy season is already here, if not right around the corner. For some people, seasonal allergies are a minor annoyance. For others, seasonal and year-round allergies can warrant the need for an antihistamine. While there are many treatment options to choose from, it’s important to know the differences between them.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Claritin (loratadine) are two common over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can treat allergy symptoms. When you come in contact with allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or pollen, your body will release a chemical called histamine. This chemical is responsible for causing sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. Antihistamine drugs work by blocking histamine to treat and prevent these symptoms.
Benadryl and Claritin may work in similar ways, but they are different types of drugs. We’ll compare these drugs and discuss their differences in how they work, their cost, and their side effects.
RELATED: Diphenhydramine coupons | What is Diphenhydramine? | Loratadine coupons | What is Loratadine?
What are the main differences between Benadryl and Claritin?
The biggest difference between Benadryl and Claritin is that Benadryl is likely to cause more drowsiness than Claritin. Benadryl, also known by its generic name diphenhydramine, is known as a first-generation antihistamine. This group of antihistamines are among the first drugs developed to treat allergy symptoms.
Claritin, also known by its generic name loratadine, is classified as a second-generation antihistamine. In other words, Claritin is part of a group of newer antihistamines. Second-generation antihistamines were developed to treat allergy symptoms without causing as much sleepiness as first-generation antihistamines.
Claritin is taken as a once-daily tablet while Benadryl needs to be taken multiple times throughout the day. This is because Claritin stays in the body longer than Benadryl.
| Main differences between Benadryl and Claritin | ||
|---|---|---|
| Benadryl | Claritin | |
| Drug class | Antihistamine First-generation |
Antihistamine Second-generation |
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic version available | Brand and generic version available |
| What is the generic name? | Diphenhydramine | Loratadine |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral capsule Oral tablet Oral solution Oral syrup |
Oral capsule Oral tablet Oral solution Oral syrup |
| What is the standard dosage? | 25 mg to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours | 10 mg once daily |
| How long is the typical treatment? | Short-term use | Short-term or long-term use as directed by a doctor |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children 2 years and older | Adults and children 2 years and older |
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Conditions treated by Benadryl and Claritin
Benadryl and Claritin are both FDA-approved to treat symptoms of allergies.
Both allergy medications can treat allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. Allergic rhinitis is a group of symptoms that affects the nose such as congestion and sneezing. Both drugs can treat allergic conjunctivitis which leads to inflammation and itchiness of the eyes. Antihistamines like Benadryl or Claritin can also treat skin hives (urticaria) and itching (pruritus) from allergies.
Because Benadryl has sedating properties, it is often used alone or in combination with other drugs for insomnia. It’s sometimes used as a single dose to help those with trouble sleeping.
Benadryl may also be used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease such as stiffness and tremors. For those who experience motion sickness, Benadryl can be used to prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
| Condition | Benadryl | Claritin |
| Allergic rhinitis | Yes | Yes |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Yes | Yes |
| Hives | Yes | Yes |
| Itching | Yes | Yes |
| Insomnia | Yes | No |
| Motion sickness | Yes | No |
| Parkinsonism | Yes | No |
Is Benadryl or Claritin more effective?
While Benadryl and Claritin are similarly effective for treating allergy symptoms, Claritin has less sedating side effects. Claritin is often preferred over Benadryl for this reason.
According to guidelines developed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), second-generation antihistamines are recommended to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing and itching.
Other guidelines from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) suggest using a nasal steroid such as Flonase or Nasacort for allergic rhinitis before adding the use of an oral antihistamine.
Research from a literature review found that newer antihistamines such as loratadine are safer than first-generation antihistamines. The study also compared other second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Allegra (fexofenadine). The study found that cetirizine or fexofenadine may be more effective than loratadine.
Choosing an antihistamine depends on your overall condition. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to determine which treatment option may best for you.
RELATED: What is Zyrtec? | What is Allegra?
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Coverage and cost comparison of Benadryl vs. Claritin
Benadryl can be purchased as an over-the-counter drug. Most Medicare and insurance plans may not cover Benadryl for this reason. Benadryl is widely available in its generic form diphenhydramine. Many pharmacies, grocery stores, and big-box retailers also carry diphenhydramine in their own store brand. The cost of Benadryl can be up to $18. If prescribed by your doctor, Benadryl (Benadryl coupon) can cost under $2 with a SingleCare coupon.
Claritin (Claritin coupon) comes in boxes with quantities ranging from 5 tablets to 100 tablets. It is purchased over-the-counter as brand-name Claritin or generic loratadine. Most Medicare and insurance plans may not cover Claritin so it’s best to check with your insurance. The average retail cost of Claritin is around $30. With a prescription, the SingleCare cost is $4-$10
RELATED: What is Benadryl? | What is Claritin?
| Benadryl | Claritin | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | No | No |
| Typically covered by Medicare? | No | No |
| Standard dosage | 25 mg tablets (quantity of 30) | 10 mg (quantity of 30) |
| Typical Medicare copay | $2 | $18-$44 |
| SingleCare cost | $1.52+ | $4-$10 |
Common side effects of Benadryl and Claritin
Antihistamines can often have side effects that affect the central nervous system (CNS). Common CNS side effects of antihistamines like Benadryl and Claritin include drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, headache, and lack of coordination. However, as a first-generation antihistamine, Benadryl is known to cause more CNS side effects compared to newer antihistamines.
Other side effects of Benadryl and Claritin include dry mouth, dry or sore throat, and skin rash. These drugs may also cause digestive side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.
Most side effects of antihistamines are mild and tolerable. Side effects depend on how an individual responds to the medication and may not be the same for everyone.
| Benadryl | Claritin | |||
| Side Effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Drowsiness | Yes | *not reported | Yes | * |
| Sedation | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Dizziness | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Headache | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Lack of coordination | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Dry mouth | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Sore or dry throat | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Skin rash | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Nausea | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Diarrhea | Yes | * | Yes | * |
| Constipation | Yes | * | Yes | * |
This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: DailyMed (Benadryl), DailyMed (Claritin)
Drug interactions of Benadryl vs. Claritin
Antihistamines like Benadryl and Claritin can interact with other drugs that have similar effects. First- and second-generation antihistamines should be cautioned or avoided with CNS depressant drugs such as hypnotics, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants. Opioids also have CNS depressant effects that may be increased when combined with an antihistamine.
Benadryl or Claritin should not be used if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Taking these medications together can lead to an increased risk of adverse effects.
Using anticholinergic drugs with antihistamines may increase “drying” side effects such as dry mouth or dry throat.
| Drug | Drug Class | Benadryl | Claritin |
| Phenelzine Selegiline Isocarboxazid |
Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) | Yes | Yes |
| Eszopiclone Zaleplon Zolpidem |
Hypnotic | Yes | Yes |
| Alprazolam Lorazepam Diazepam |
Benzodiazepine | Yes | Yes |
| Pentobarbital Secobarbital |
Barbiturate | Yes | Yes |
| Carbamazepine Gabapentin |
Anticonvulsant | Yes | Yes |
| Cyclobenzaprine Carisoprodol |
Muscle relaxant | Yes | Yes |
| Codeine | Opioids | Yes | Yes |
| Benztropine Atropine Oxybutynin |
Anticholinergic | Yes | Yes |
This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Please consult your doctor before taking these medications.
Warnings of Benadryl and Claritin
Benadryl or Claritin should not be used if you have had allergic reactions to any of the active ingredients labeled on the package. Taking these medications may cause a hypersensitivity reaction, such as trouble breathing or severe rash, if you have an allergy to the medicine.
Since antihistamines can cause increased drowsiness and sleepiness, their use is cautioned when engaging in certain activities such as driving a car or operating machinery.
Benadryl is not recommended in elderly adults 65 years and older. Taking Benadryl may increase the risk of dementia or cognitive impairment, delirium, and fainting.
Talk to your doctor before using Benadryl or Claritin if you have asthma, liver disease, or kidney disease.
Frequently asked questions about Benadryl vs. Claritin
What is Benadryl?
Benadryl is the brand name for diphenhydramine. It is a first-generation antihistamine that can treat allergy symptoms. Benadryl can also be used for insomnia, motion sickness, and parkinsonism. It is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours.
What is Claritin?
Claritin is the brand name for loratadine HCl. It is a second-generation antihistamine that can treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Claritin is an over-the-counter drug that is taken once daily.
Are Benadryl and Claritin the same?
No. Benadryl and Claritin are not the same. Benadryl works differently and has a different side effects profile compared to Claritin. Claritin is a newer drug than Benadryl.
Is Benadryl or Claritin better?
Claritin is usually recommended over Benadryl for allergic rhinitis and other allergy symptoms. Both drugs have similar effectiveness but Claritin has less sedating side effects. Claritin only needs to be taken once daily which may be preferred for some people.
Can I use Benadryl or Claritin while pregnant?
Benadryl and Claritin are generally safe for use during pregnancy. According to the CDC, most antihistamines have not been shown to cause birth defects. Check with your doctor before using an antihistamine if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Can I use Benadryl or Claritin with alcohol?
Antihistamines like Benadryl or Claritin are not generally recommended for use with alcohol. Taking these medicines with alcohol may increase the risk of adverse effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
Is it ok to take Claritin and Benadryl? / Can I take Benadryl 12 hours after Claritin?
It’s not recommended to take Claritin and Benadryl together. Because they have similar side effects, taking them together can increase the risk of adverse effects. Claritin has a relatively long half-life so it may not be safe to take Benadryl 12 hours after Claritin. Consult a doctor for medical advice before taking multiple antihistamines.
How long does it take for Benadryl to kick in?
Benadryl reaches peak levels in the body within 2 hours. However, the effects of Benadryl may be felt much sooner.
Does Claritin really last 24 hours?
Yes. Claritin is a daily pill with effects that can last for around 24 hours. The half-life is approximately 10 hours for loratadine and up to 28 hours for its active metabolite descarboethoxyloratadine.
Does Claritin keep you awake at night?
Claritin alone does not usually cause insomnia. However, Claritin-D, which contains pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), may cause trouble sleeping at night. This is because pseudoephedrine is a stimulant decongestant.
