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Claritin vs. Zyrtec: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you

Zyrtec and Claritin are antihistamines that provide temporary relief from sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watering eyes

Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQs

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are allergy medications typically prescribed to treat symptoms of hay fever and upper respiratory tract allergies. Both of these drugs are antihistamines that temporarily relieve sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. Antihistamines work by reducing the production of a chemical called histamine, which is responsible for causing symptoms when the body is exposed to an allergen.

These allergy medications do not need a prescription from a doctor. You can get them as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs from your local pharmacy. Both Zyrtec and Claritin are also available in generic forms. Although Zyrtec and Claritin belong to the same drug class, they may differ in how long they take to work and their side-effects profile.

What are the main differences between Zyrtec and Claritin?

The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. It is used to treat allergy symptoms in adults and children over two years of age. However, in some cases, it may be used in children and infants as young as six months. It is usually taken as an oral tablet and can be used for allergies that last throughout the year (perennial) or during certain seasons (seasonal). Zyrtec (Zyrtec details) has a quick onset of action, with relief usually felt within 1 hour. Like other antihistamines, this medication also has the potential to cause sedation.

Claritin, on the other hand, is known by its generic name, loratadine. While it is effective against allergy symptoms, it has a slower onset of action than Zyrtec—around one to three hours. In addition, Claritin is less likely to cause sedation than Zyrtec. Claritin (Claritin details) is generally used in adults and children older than six years of age, although an oral liquid solution may be available for children over two.

  Zyrtec (cetirizine) Claritin (loratadine)
Drug class Antihistamine (second-generation) Antihistamine (second-generation)
Brand/Generic status Generic form available Generic form available
Generic name Cetirizine  Loratadine
What form(s) does the drug come in? Oral tablet

Oral capsule

Chewable tablet

Oral solution

Orally disintegrating tablet

Oral tablet

Oral capsule

Chewable tablet

Oral solution

What is the standard dosage? 5 to 10 mg once daily 10 mg once daily
How long is the typical treatment? Short-term or long-term depending on the severity and type of allergy Short-term or long-term depending on the severity and type of allergy
Who typically uses the medication? Adults and children 2 years and older, depending on the formulation Adults and children 2 years and older, depending on the formulation

Conditions treated by Zyrtec and Claritin

OTC antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin can be used to treat symptoms of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis (swelling of the nasal lining), allergic conjunctivitis (inflammation around the eyes), and hives (urticaria). Zyrtec or Claritin may be taken to control allergy symptoms of rhinitis, such as sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. Both drugs can also treat itching, watery eyes, and postnasal drip from allergies as well. 

These antihistamines are not typically recommended to treat symptoms of non-allergic conditions, such as the common cold or bacterial infections. However, antihistamines may sometimes be used off-label to treat asthma that is triggered by allergies. Still, other drugs may be more useful in these cases. 

Condition Zyrtec Claritin
Seasonal allergic rhinitis Yes Yes
Perennial allergic rhinitis Yes Yes
Chronic urticaria Yes Yes
Allergic conjunctivitis Yes Yes
Allergic asthma Off-label Off-label

Is Zyrtec or Claritin more effective?

Clinical trials have compared the effectiveness between Claritin and Zyrtec. One study found that both Zyrtec and Claritin are more effective in relieving the symptoms of allergy than a placebo pill. The study also found that Zyrtec performed better than Claritin, although the results were not statistically significant. 

According to one review, Zyrtec has a quicker onset of action compared to Claritin and may be more effective than Claritin in reducing allergy symptoms. However, cetirizine, the active ingredient of Zyrtec, has been shown to produce more drowsiness than loratadine. In a randomized clinical trial, those taking cetirizine for allergic rhinitis experienced more drowsiness during the workday than loratadine. 

The most appropriate anti-allergy medication to use ultimately depends on your overall condition and symptoms. Your doctor may be able to suggest the best medication for you after evaluating your symptoms.

Coverage and cost comparison of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Zyrtec is available as a generic medication. Since it does not require a doctor’s visit or prescription, it can be purchased over the counter. For this reason, it is not typically covered by Medicare or insurance plans. The average retail cost of generic Zyrtec is around $25. With a SingleCare coupon card, this price can be lowered substantially. 

Claritin is also available as a generic drug over the counter. It is not usually covered by Medicare or insurance plans. The average cash price for generic Claritin tablets is around $30. A SingleCare coupon card could reduce the price to as low as $4, depending on the pharmacy you go to. 

Zyrtec Claritin
Typically covered by insurance? No No
Typically covered by Medicare? No No
Standard dosage 10 mg tablets   10 mg tablets 
Typical Medicare copay $2 $18-$446
SingleCare cost $13+ $4-$11

Common side effects of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin are less likely to cause sedating side effects; however, of the two, Zyrtec has been reported to cause a higher incidence of drowsiness. 

Other adverse effects of Zyrtec and Claritin may include fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, stomach pain, nervousness, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, cough, and nausea.

Serious side effects may include abnormal heart rate, palpitations, severe faintness, confusion, or allergic reactions. It is important to contact your healthcare provider and seek care immediately should you experience any serious side effects. 

  Zyrtec Claritin
Side Effect Applicable? Applicable?
Drowsiness Yes Yes
Headache Yes Yes
Fatigue Yes Yes
Dry mouth Yes Yes
Sore throat  Yes Yes
Cough Yes Yes
Diarrhea 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.

Drug interactions of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Zyrtec and Claritin are processed or metabolized by the liver. These drugs are broken down by the P450 cytochrome enzyme in the liver, which is involved in the metabolism of a number of other drugs. For this reason, both Claritin and Zyrtec may interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes. 

Zyrtec and Claritin should be avoided with other sedating antihistamines, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine). Taking two antihistamines together can increase CNS side effects like sedation and impairment in judgment, concentration, and memory. Avoid using Zyrtec or Claritin with alcohol, which can also increase drowsiness.

Other medications that Zyrtec may interact with include benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, and certain antidepressants, among other drugs. As a result, Claritin may have fewer drug interactions compared to Zyrtec.

Zyrtec vs. Claritin interactions

Drug Drug Class Zyrtec Claritin
Diphenhydramine

Chlorpheniramine

First-generation antihistamine Yes Yes
Gabapentin Anticonvulsant Yes No
Escitalopram

Duloxetine

Antidepressants Yes No
Carisoprodol

Cyclobenzaprine

Muscle relaxant Yes No
Alprazolam

Lorazepam

Benzodiazepine Yes No
Tramadol

Codeine

Hydrocodone

Opioid Yes No

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Please consult your doctor before taking these medications.

Warnings of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Antihistamines should not be taken if there is a history of an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the medication. Before taking either Zyrtec or Claritin, you should consult your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, as these drugs are processed in the liver and kidneys. 

Children under six years of age, and adults over 65, should consult their healthcare provider before taking Zyrtec or Claritin. 

Additionally, Zyrtec is contraindicated with the concurrent use of alcohol, tranquilizers, or other forms of sedatives, as they can increase the sedating side effects of this drug.

Studies have shown that most antihistamines do not cause birth defects when taken during pregnancy. However, some of these drugs do have the potential to cause certain birth defects. Before taking Zyrtec or Claritin in pregnancy, you should talk to your doctor about the potential risks.

Taking antihistamines during breastfeeding may not be recommended as these drugs can pass from the breast milk to the baby. Zyrtec and Claritin may be considered for women who are breastfeeding if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Can children use Zyrtec and Claritin?

Yes, both Zyrtec and Claritin can be used by children, but the appropriate dosage may vary depending on the child’s age. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication regimen for your child. Here is some general information for your reference:

Zyrtec for children

  • For children aged 2 to 6 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mg (1/2 teaspoon) once daily. If needed, the dose can be increased to 5 mg daily (1 teaspoon).
  • For children aged 6 to 12 years: The usual dose is 5 mg to 10 mg (1 to 2 teaspoons) once daily.

Claritin for children

  • For children aged 2 to 5 years: The typical dose is 5 mg (1/2 teaspoon) once daily.
  • For children aged 6 years and over: The usual dose is 10 mg (1 teaspoon) once daily.

In general, both medications should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be used more than once in a 24-hour period. If your child experiences any severe side effects or allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

Frequently asked questions about Zyrtec vs. Claritin

What is Zyrtec?

Zyrtec is an over-the-counter antihistamine that is used to treat allergies. It is a second-generation antihistamine that starts to relieve allergy symptoms within an hour and lasts for around 24 hours. Zyrtec is typically used in adults and children over two years of age. The generic name of Zyrtec is cetirizine

What is Claritin?

Claritin is a second-generation antihistamine that is available over the counter. It is indicated in the treatment of allergies and produces maximum effects in one to three hours. Allergy relief usually lasts for 24 hours. Claritin is suitable for adults and children over two years of age. The generic name of Claritin is loratadine

Are Zyrtec and Claritin the same?

Both Zyrtec and Claritin belong to the same drug class, but they are not the same. Zyrtec contains the active compound cetirizine hydrochloride, while Claritin contains the active compound loratadine. Zyrtec has more sedating properties but may work faster than Claritin.

Is Zyrtec (cetirizine) or Claritin (loratadine) better?

Few studies have been performed comparing the efficacy of Zyrtec and Claritin. One clinical trial has shown that Zyrtec may be better for allergic rhinitis, although there were no significant differences between the two. Still, Zyrtec produces more drowsiness and somnolence than Claritin, which may affect the tolerability of the drug. 

Can I use Zyrtec or Claritin while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Certain antihistamines have been shown to be associated with birth defects. While Zyrtec and Claritin may have a low pregnancy risk, it is best to consult your doctor before starting either of these medications. When it comes to breastfeeding, both Zyrtec and Claritin are usually considered safe. However, a small amount of the medication may pass into breast milk. Consult with your doctor or pediatrician before starting any new medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I use Zyrtec or Claritin with alcohol?

No. Zyrtec or Claritin should not be taken with alcohol. Alcohol may increase sedating side effects when consumed with antihistamines. 

Can you take Zyrtec and Claritin simultaneously?

No. Antihistamines should not be taken simultaneously due to an increased risk of adverse effects.

Are Zyrtec or Claritin safe to take daily all year round?

Zyrtec and Claritin can be used long-term. However, these medications are usually prescribed during the allergy season. Once allergy symptoms have subsided, these drugs may be discontinued.