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Elestat vs. Zyrtec

Epinastine hydrochloride is an antihistamine eye drop medication. It's used to prevent eye itchiness that's related to allergies. The eye drops are available by prescription for adults and children 2 years of age and older. The medication is placed directly into the eyes twice a day. Side effects include a burning feeling in the eye and eye redness.

• Prevention of eye itchiness from allergies

• Burning feeling in the eye (up to 10%)
• Eye redness (up to 10%)
• Small bumps around the eye (up to 10%)
• Itchy eye (up to 10%)
• Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., common cold; 10%))

• For use in the eye only
• Risk for bacterial infections in the eye if you use contaminated medication
• Don't use while wearing contact lenses

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