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Compare Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

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

Key takeaways

Lastacaft (alcaftadine) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are both antihistamines, but they are used differently and have distinct forms. Lastacaft is an eye drop used once daily to treat eye itching and redness due to allergies. It’s available over-the-counter and doesn’t have a generic form. On the other hand, cetirizine is taken orally and is used to relieve a variety of allergy symptoms, such as runny nose and watery eyes. Cetirizine is available in multiple formulations, including tablets and liquids, and can be found both as a prescription and over-the-counter medication. While Lastacaft is specifically for eye symptoms, cetirizine can treat a broader range of allergy symptoms and is also safe for use during pregnancy. However, cetirizine can cause drowsiness, which isn’t typically seen with Lastacaft.

  • Lastacaft (alcaftadine)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
  • Lastacaft (alcaftadine)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

  • Summary of Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Lastacaft (alcaftadine) is a once-daily anti-allergy eye drop. It was previously available only by prescription, but you can now get it over the counter.

    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 Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Indications for
    •Eye itching or redness due to allergies (allergic conjunctivitis)
    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 Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Used just once daily
    •Can be given to children as young as 2 years of age
    •Doesn't leave weird aftertaste like the similar medication called Bepreve (bepotastine)
    Cons
    •Can cause eye pain and irritation
    •Not for itching caused by infections or contact lenses
    •Can be more expensive than many alternatives
    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 Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Common Side Effects for
    •Eye irritation
    •Burning and stinging in the eye
    •Eye redness
    •Eye itching
    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 Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Common Side Effects for
    •Contamination of dropper tip and solution
    •Contact lens use
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication

  • Prices with our coupons for Lastacaft vs. Zyrtec

    Learn more about Lastacaft
    Learn more about Cetirizine

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