For example, while Claritin is effective for treating hay fever and hives, other antihistamines, such as Zyrtec and Allegra, work better and faster and last longer. Zyrtec and Allegra work quickly for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and hives, typically within less than an hour. On the other hand, studies show that Claritin takes many hours to start working. Studies show that Allegra is nearly as good as Zyrtec at treating hayfever. However, Zyrtec and its isomer Xyzal levocetirizine appear to be better medicines for the treatment of hives.
There are also some unexpected nuances associated with each of the antihistamines. For example, if you're taking Allegra, it's important to avoid drinking fruit juice for one to two hours before you take the medication and one to two hours after. Juices such as orange juice or grapefruit juice can decrease the absorption of Allegra by nearly half.
The best antihistamine choice for any one person is based on the degree of symptom relief desired and the degree of side effects you're willing to tolerate. For mild to moderate allergy symptoms, Allegra may be preferable to drugs such as Zyrtec since these other drugs are more sedating. Yet for severe symptoms that are interfering with work, school, or play, a medication such as Zyrtec may be needed.
Note that every person is different. This means that despite what studies say, there are many people who do not experience any fatigue on Zyrtec or Xyzal. Likewise, there are people who do experience fatigue on Allegra.
It's sometimes helpful to try different medications to see which works best for you as an individual. If you try this, though, talk with your healthcare provider first. You might keep a journal to get an objective measure of which drug works best. For instance, you can write down your most annoying symptoms, and rank them from 1 to 10 based on how well they are controlled by different medications.
Talk with an allergist about the possibility of allergy testing and allergy shots. While allergy shots require more follow-up and more pokes they can sometimes cure allergies or at least significantly reduce their symptoms so that medications are no longer needed. In addition, it's thought that allergy shots may sometimes help prevent the development of new allergies. First-generation antihistamines cross the blood-brain barrier , which can produce a sedative effect. However, not everyone feels sleepy when taking these.
Among second-generation antihistamines, the most potent are Xzal levocetirizine and Allegra fexofenadine , which are available over the counter. In the end, Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra are all good antihistamine options and are generally well-tolerated. As we age, we become more susceptible to these side effects and can experience falls or confusion, which is a good reason to avoid use in older adults or limit to a short duration at the lowest effective dose.
If continuous seasonal allergy treatment is needed, second-generation antihistamines like Allegra and Claritin are considered safer since they have a low risk for drowsiness.
Zyrtec cetirizine is an exception to this rule, as it may cause drowsiness in about 10 percent of individuals. If you use Allegra, please note grapefruit, orange and apple juice can decrease its effectiveness. If one medication does not bring relief, trying a different second-generation antihistamine may be helpful. See the table below for a more detailed comparison of this class of medications.
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An allergy develops when the immune system becomes hypersensitive to a food or other substance. Learn how to identify and manage allergies here. Zyrtec vs. Claritin for treating allergies. Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm.
Claritin Comparisons How do they work? Warnings Precautions Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. Share on Pinterest People can purchase Zyrtec and Claritin without prescription. They are available as pills, chewable tablets, and syrups. Comparisons with other allergy medications. How do allergy medications work? Share on Pinterest Zyrtec and Claritin are safe for most people with minor allergies, but side effects can include headaches and dizziness.
Zyrtec and Benadryl have similar side effects. The most common side effects are sleepiness or drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, and headache. This is not a full list of side effects. Other adverse effects may occur. Consult your healthcare provider for professional medical advice. The combination could cause slowed breathing as well as excess dizziness, drowsiness, and psychomotor impairment. Benadryl also should not be taken with potassium products in solid dosage forms due to the risk of ulcerative lesions.
This chart is not a full list of drug interactions. Other drug interactions may occur. Consult your healthcare provider for a complete list of drug interactions. Zyrtec is a second-generation antihistamine. It contains the ingredient cetirizine. It is available OTC in brand and generic form. Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine, containing the ingredient diphenhydramine. You can purchase Benadryl over-the-counter in brand or generic form. Zyrtec and Benadryl are both antihistamines that help relieve allergy symptoms.
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine and tends to cause more side effects. Zyrtec is a second-generation antihistamine and causes fewer side effects. Other common newer antihistamines you may see on the shelf include Claritin loratadine , Allegra fexofenadine , and Xyzal levocetirizine. Both drugs are similarly effective, but Zyrtec may cause less drowsiness. Zyrtec still can cause drowsiness as well, though. Since both medications are available OTC, you can try one to see how it improves your symptoms.
Your pharmacist can help you select an appropriate product. Be sure to inform your pharmacist of any medical conditions you have and any medications you take.
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