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Compare Atarax vs. Zyrtec

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are both antihistamines that treat allergy-related symptoms. Cetirizine is available over-the-counter and is less likely to cause drowsiness than hydroxyzine. Cetirizine is also considered safe to take during pregnancy, while hydroxyzine isn't recommended. Hydroxyzine is only available by prescription. It's also approved to treat short-term anxiety, while cetirizine isn't approved for this use. But hydroxyzine can cause severe drowsiness and may not be safe for older adults or thse with a heart-related condition.

  • Hydroxyzine hcl (Atarax)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
  • Hydroxyzine hcl (Atarax)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

  • Summary of Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Summary for Antihistamine
    Prescription only

    Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) is a prescription antihistamine for adults and children. It's used to treat anxiety and to ease itching from allergies. It's also used as a sleep aid (sedative) before and after general anesthesia. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) comes as tablet and oral solution that are taken by mouth up to 4 times per day. Common side effects include sleepiness and dry mouth.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is an antihistamine. It's used for relief of allergy symptoms, such as runny nose or watery eyes, in adults and children. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is also a safe option for people who are pregnant. This medication is available in different formulations, including tablets and liquid solutions. Typically, cetirizine (Zyrtec) is taken by mouth once per day. The most common side effect of cetirizine (Zyrtec) is sleepiness. But it's less likely to make you drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

  • Indications of Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Indications for
    •Anxiety
    •Itching from allergic skin conditions (e.g., hives, eczema, etc.)
    •Sleep aid (sedative) while receiving general anesthesia for surgery
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat)
    •Relief of itchiness due to chronic (long-term) hives in children ages 6 months to under 6 years old - certain liquid solutions only

  • Pros and Cons of Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Starts to work within 30 minutes
    •Available as a tablet and a liquid that are taken by mouth
    •Can use in children
    Cons
    •Available by prescription only
    •Might need to take up to 4 times per day
    •Can rarely cause sexual side effects
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
    •Taken once per day
    •Available in several formulations (e.g., pills, chewable tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, liquids)
    •Safe to take while pregnant
    Cons
    •Can cause you to feel sleepy
    •Higher risk of side effects in people with liver or kidney problems
    •Pills can't be used in children younger than 6 years.

  • Common Side Effects of Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dry mouth
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for

    People 12 years of age and older:

    •Sleepiness (14%)
    •Tiredness (6%)
    •Dry mouth (5%)

    Children age 6 to under 12 years:

    •Headache (11-14%)
    •Sore throat (3-6%)
    •Stomach pain (4-6%)
    •Cough (3-4%)
    •Sleepiness (2-4%)

  • Warnings of Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
    •Higher risk of side effects in people over 65
    •Severe allergic and skin reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication

  • Prices with our coupons for Atarax vs. Zyrtec

    Learn more about Hydroxyzine hcl
    Learn more about Cetirizine

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