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Drug vs. Drug

Zyrtec vs. Claritin for allergies: Which is best?

Zyrtec and Claritin are antihistamines that provide temporary relief from sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watering eyes
Gerardo Sison medical writer headshot
By | Updated on Aug. 20, 2024
Rx tablets: Zyrtec vs. Claritin drug comparison

Key takeaways

  • Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are over-the-counter antihistamines that treat allergy symptoms. Though Zyrtec has a quicker onset, it is more likely to cause sedation.

  • Adults and children can use both medications, but specific dosages vary by age. Consult with your healthcare provider before use.

  • Zyrtec and Claritin are not typically covered by insurance or Medicare, but generic versions are cheaper. You can reduce the cost further with a SingleCare discount card.

  • While both drugs are safe for long-term use, they should not be combined with alcohol or taken simultaneously with other antihistamines. Consult with your provider before using these medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In this article:

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are allergy medications used to treat symptoms of hay fever or allergic rhinitis. These drugs act as antihistamines that temporarily relieve sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. Antihistamines reduce 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 healthcare provider. 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 symptoms of allergies in adults and children over two years of age. However, oral syrup may be used in children and infants as young as six months. Zyrtec has a quick onset of action, with relief usually felt within 20 minutes to an hour. 

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 is generally used in adults and children older than six, although an oral liquid solution may be available for children over two.

Main differences between Zyrtec vs. Claritin
  Zyrtec  Claritin
Drug class Antihistamine (second-generation) Antihistamine (second-generation)
Brand/Generic status Brand and generic available Brand and generic 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

Orally disintegrating tablet
What is the standard dosage? 5 to 10 mg once daily in adults. Dosage may vary in children 10 mg once daily in adults. Dosage may vary in children
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 6 months and older, depending on the formulation Adults and children 2 years and older, depending on the formulation

Conditions treated by Zyrtec and Claritin

Over-the-counter antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin can be used to treat symptoms of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis (inflammation around the eyes), and hives (urticaria). These medications may help control allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, postnasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. 

These antihistamines are not typically recommended to treat symptoms of non-allergic conditions, such as the common cold or bacterial infections. However, they may help relieve sneezing, runny nose, and other symptoms of respiratory infections. In addition, antihistamines may help treat rhinitis from asthma that is triggered by allergies. 

Conditions treated by Zyrtec and Claritin
Condition Zyrtec Claritin
Seasonal allergic rhinitis Yes Yes
Perennial allergic rhinitis Yes Yes
Chronic urticaria Yes Yes
Allergic conjunctivitis Yes Yes
Common cold symptoms Off-label Off-label
Allergic asthma Off-label Off-label

Is Zyrtec or Claritin more effective?

Clinical trials have shown that Zyrtec and Claritin are more effective in relieving allergy symptoms than a placebo or nothing at all. However, some studies suggest Zyrtec may be more effective than Claritin.

According to one review, Zyrtec has a quicker onset of action than Claritin and may be more effective than Claritin in reducing allergy symptoms. However, Zyrtec may cause more drowsiness than Claritin. 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 depends on your overall condition and symptoms. After evaluating your symptoms, your healthcare provider may be able to suggest the best medication for you.

Coverage and cost comparison of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Zyrtec is a generic medication that can be purchased over the counter without a healthcare provider’s visit or prescription. For this reason, it is not typically covered by Medicare or insurance plans. The average retail cost of Zyrtec is around $25. A SingleCare coupon card may help lower the retail cost of Zyrtec if it’s prescribed by a doctor. 

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 Claritin tablets is around $30. If Claritin is prescribed by a doctor, a SingleCare coupon card may help 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
Quantity 30 tablets 30 tablets
SingleCare cost $17 $2

Common side effects of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin are less likely to cause sedating side effects than first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine). 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, and 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
Dizziness 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 and warnings of Zyrtec vs. Claritin

Zyrtec and Claritin share similar interactions with other drugs that slow the central nervous system (CNS). Taking Zyrtec or Claritin with a medication with CNS-depressant effects may increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Examples of medications with these effects include opioids, muscle relaxants, and benzodiazepines. 

Claritin is significantly broken down by the P450 cytochrome enzymes in the liver, which is an important enzyme that helps break down many drugs. Some drugs can either increase (inducers) or decrease (inhibitors) the activity of this enzyme, affecting how Claritin is metabolized. Medications that may interact with Claritin include certain antibiotics, antifungals, antiretrovirals, and herbal supplements.

Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription medications, OTC medicines, and herbal supplements you take before starting a new drug. 

Additional precautions with Zyrtec and Claritin

Children under six years of age and adults over 65 should consult a healthcare provider before taking Zyrtec or Claritin. In addition, those with liver or kidney disease may need to use caution before taking either Zyrtec or Claritin.

Avoid taking antihistamines if you have a history of an allergic reaction to them. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with a healthcare provider about the best option to treat allergies. 

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 5 years: The typical dosage is 2.5 mg once daily. The dosage may be increased to 5 mg daily if needed.
  • For children aged 6 to 11 years: The usual dosage is 5 mg or 10 mg once daily.

Claritin for children

  • For children aged 2 to 5 years: The typical dosage is 5 mg once daily.
  • For children aged 6 years and over: The usual dosage is 10 mg once daily.

In general, both medications should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be used more than once every 24 hours. If your child experiences 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 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. The generic name of Zyrtec is cetirizine. 

What is Claritin?

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

Are Zyrtec and Claritin the same?

Zyrtec and Claritin belong to the same drug class but 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 older clinical trial has shown that Zyrtec may be better for allergic rhinitis, although there were no significant differences between the two. In addition, Zyrtec works faster than Claritin but may cause more drowsiness. 

Can I use Zyrtec or Claritin while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Zyrtec and Claritin may have a low pregnancy risk, but it is best to consult your doctor before taking an antihistamine while pregnant. 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 a healthcare provider 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, such as drowsiness and dizziness, when consumed with antihistamines. 

Can you take Zyrtec and Claritin simultaneously?

No. Antihistamines should not be taken at the same time due to an increased risk of overlapping side effects.

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

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