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Benadryl vs. Zyrtec

Diphenhydramine, also known by the brand name Benadryl, is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve allergy or common cold symptoms in adults and children. It comes as pills and a liquid and is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Because it can make you drowsy, some people also use it as a sleep aid at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

• Short-term relief of allergy or common cold symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes) - people 6 years and older
• Occasional trouble sleeping - people 12 years and older

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Blurry vision
• Dry mouth

• Sleepiness
• Accidental overdose
• Worsening of certain health problems

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).

• 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

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%)

• Sleepiness
• Accidentally taking too much medication