Zyrtec (cetirizine hydrochloride) is an antihistamine that treats symptoms, such as itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and other allergies, such as allergies to molds and dust mites. Zyrtec is available in generic form and over-the-counter (OTC).
Is generic Zyrtec the same?
Both Zyrtec and Claritin belong to the same drug class but their generic forms are different. Zyrtec has the active compound cetirizine hydrochloride while Claritin has the active compound loratadine.
Can generic Zyrtec make you sleepy?
Zyrtec can cause sleepiness, but only in some people. Take it for the first time when you will be at home for a few hours in case it makes you sleepy. Claritin is less likely to cause sleepiness than Zyrtec when you take either at recommended doses.
Which is better Zyrtec or Benadryl?
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) is great for allergies, but curl up on the couch after taking it and get ready for a nap. Zyrtec (cetirizine) works to treat sneezing and runny nose, and causes less sedation compared to Benadryl. Works well to also treat hives and itchy skin.
What is the best generic allergy medicine?
If your allergies only appear sporadically – say when pollen count is high or you have that random encounter with your friend’s cat – fast-acting antihistamines will be your best bet. These include medications like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratidine), Allegra (fexofenadine), and Zyrtec (cetirizine).7 мая 2018 г.
Is it OK to take antihistamines every day?
Depending on your symptoms, you can take antihistamines: Every day, to help keep daily symptoms under control. Only when you have symptoms. Before being exposed to things that often cause your allergy symptoms, such as a pet or certain plants.30 мая 2020 г.
Is it better to take Zyrtec at night or in the morning?
Cetirizine can be taken at any time of the day. In most people it is non-sedating, so they take it in the morning. However, a percentage of people do find it to be sedating so if it does make you drowsy it is best to take it in the evening. Cetirizine can be taken with or without food.
Is it OK to take Zyrtec everyday?
Can be taken once a day. May be given daily on a regular basis when allergens are most prevalent (such as during spring or summer). Zyrtec does not appear to interact with many drugs (theophylline slightly decreased the clearance of Zyrtec). Zyrtec has been demonstrated to be safe in children older than 6 months.
Can Zyrtec make you gain weight?
Antihistamines that can cause weight gain include: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl and others) Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
What is the strongest allergy medicine?
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Allegra Adult 24-Hour Allergy Relief at Amazon. …
- Best Prescription-Strength: Zyrtec Prescription-Strength Allergy Medicine Tablets at Amazon. …
- Best for Kids: Children’s Zyrtec Allergy Relief Syrup at Amazon. …
- Best Non-Drowsy: Claritin 24-Hour Allergy Reditabs at Amazon.
What gets rid of allergies fast?
Try an over-the-counter remedy
- Oral antihistamines. Antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching, a runny nose and watery eyes. …
- Decongestants. Oral decongestants such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Afrinol, others) can provide temporary relief from nasal stuffiness. …
- Nasal spray. …
- Combination medications.
Is Claritin or Zyrtec better?
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.
Is Zyrtec still available by prescription?
Do I need a prescription to take ZYRTEC®? No. Since 2008, ZYRTEC® has been available over the counter, without a prescription.
Is generic Zyrtec as effective?
Are generic drugs less effective? No. Generic medications are just as effective as brand-name drugs.