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Desloratadine vs. Loratadine

Desloratadine (Clarinex) is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms. It can also relieve symptoms from chronic hives (long-term hives). This medication is for both adults and children. It comes as a tablet, oral solution, and orally disintegrating tablet (ODT). Desloratadine (Clarinex) is taken by mouth once a day. It's usually less likely to cause side effects, like sleepiness, than some other antihistamines. Desloratadine (Clarinex) is available by prescription only, not over the counter (OTC).

• Seasonal allergy symptoms - people 2 years and older
• Year-round allergy symptoms - people 6 months and older
• Chronic hives - people 6 months and older

• Sore throat (4%)
• Dry mouth (3%)

• Allergic reactions
• Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - ODT formulation only

Loratadine (Claritin) is an over-the-counter antihistamine for adults and kids. It helps relieve allergy symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. This allergy medication is taken by mouth, usually once a day. It comes as different formulations, including regular tablets, chewable tablets, and a liquid. Loratadine (Claritin) is a non-drowsy allergy medication because it's less likely to make you sleepy. Other side effects can include headache and feeling tired. Loratadine (Claritin) is available as a brand-name and generic.

• Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (runny nose, itchy nose or throat, itchy or watery eyes)

• Headache (12%)
• Sleepiness (8%)
• Feeling tired (4%)
• Dry mouth (3%)

• Sleepiness
• Accidentally taking too much medication
• Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets and orally disintegrating tablets