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Compare Olopatadine vs. Allegra

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

Key takeaways

Olopatadine (Pataday) and Fexofenadine (Allegra) are both antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Olopatadine is an eye drop used to relieve eye itching and redness from allergies, while Fexofenadine is taken orally to treat general allergy symptoms and hives. Olopatadine is available in different strengths and can be used once or twice daily, depending on the formulation. In contrast, Fexofenadine comes in various forms, including tablets, fast-melting tablets, and liquid, and is typically taken once or twice a day. Olopatadine works quickly, within minutes, and is suitable for children over 2 years old. Fexofenadine starts working in about 2 hours and once-daily formulations are not recommended for children under 12 years old. Additionally, Olopatadine can cause blurry vision and dry eye, while Fexofenadine may cause headaches and dry mouth. Both medications are available over the counter (OTC).

  • Olopatadine (Pataday)
    Fexofenadine (Allegra)
  • Olopatadine (Pataday)
    Fexofenadine (Allegra)

  • Summary of Olopatadine vs. Allegra

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Olopatadine (Pataday) is an antihistamine over-the-counter (OTC) eye drop medication used to treat eye itching and redness from allergies. It's applied to the eyes, typically once or twice daily, depending on the strength. Some side effects of olopatadine (Pataday) include blurry vision and dry eye.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Fexofenadine (Allegra) is an antihistamine. It's used to ease symptoms of allergy and hives in adults and children. Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be found over the counter as a tablet, fast-melting tablet, and liquid. This medication is taken once or twice per day, depending on the formulation. Fexofenadine (Allegra) starts to work in about 2 hours and its effects can last up to 24 hours. Fexofenadine (Allegra) doesn't make you as drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other possible side effects of fexofenadine (Allegra) include headache and dry mouth.

  • Indications of Olopatadine vs. Allegra

    Indications for
    •Temporary relief of allergy eye symptoms, such as itching and redness
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat)
    •Treatment of hives

  • Pros and Cons of Olopatadine vs. Allegra

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Works within minutes and lasts up to 24 hours, depending on the strength
    •Can be used in children over 2 years old
    •Available over the counter
    Cons
    •Can't wear contacts for 10 minutes after using
    •Not for itching caused by infections or contact lenses
    •Might contain preservatives
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
    •Some products can also be used to relieve itchiness from hives.
    •Available as 12-hour and 24-hour tablets, as well as a liquid and quick-dissolving tablets for those who have a hard time swallowing pills
    •All formulations available over the counter
    Cons
    •Liquid form might not be the best choice for people on a low-salt diet because it contains sodium
    •Once-daily formulations not recommended for children younger than 12 years old
    •Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems
    •Can cause headache

  • Common Side Effects of Olopatadine vs. Allegra

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blurry vision (5%)

    Note: These side effects were noted by people using olopatadine eye drops 0.77% in clinical studies.

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache

  • Warnings of Olopatadine vs. Allegra

    Common Side Effects for
    •For use in the eyes only
    •Risk for bacterial infections in the eye when using contaminated medication
    •Don't use while wearing contact lenses
    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablet only

  • Prices with our coupons for Olopatadine vs. Allegra

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    Learn more about Fexofenadine

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