Olopatadine vs. Claritin for Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Olopatadine (Pataday) and loratadine (Claritin) are both over-the-counter antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Olopatadine is an eye drop used to relieve eye itching and redness caused by allergies, while loratadine is taken orally to treat a broader range of allergy symptoms, such as runny and itchy nose. Olopatadine is applied directly to the eyes once or twice daily, depending on the strength, whereas loratadine is taken by mouth once daily. Olopatadine can cause side effects like blurry vision and dry eye, while loratadine may cause headaches and tiredness. Additionally, Olopatadine is suitable for children over 2 years old, while loratadine can be used by children as young as 2 years old, but only in specific formulations. Lastly, Olopatadine requires you to remove contact lenses before use, whereas loratadine should be used with caution in people with phenylketonuria (PKU).

Olopatadine

(Pataday)

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Loratadine

(Claritin)

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Summary for Olopatadine

Over-the-counter

Olopatadine (Pataday) is an over-the-counter (OTC) allergy eye drop for adults and children 2 years and up. It works as an antihistamine to help relieve itchy and red eyes from allergies. There are 3 types of olopatadine eye drops (Pataday). There's a lower-strength version that's used twice a day. Regular-strength and extra-strength versions that are used once a day are also available. Some side effects include blurry vision and dry eye.

Indications for Olopatadine

Temporary relief of allergy eye symptoms, such as itchy and red eyes

Pros and Cons for Olopatadine

Pros

Works within minutes to help relieve itchy and red eyes from allergies
Safe for children over 2 years old
Available over the counter

Cons

Not for irritation caused by eye infections, contact lenses, or dry eye
Contains preservatives, which can cause eye irritation
Must take out contact lenses first before using

Common Side Effects for Olopatadine

Blurry vision
Burning or stinging in the eye
Feeling like something is in the eye
Common cold symptoms
Sore throat

Warnings for Olopatadine

For use in the eyes only
Remove contact lenses before use

Summary for Claritin

Over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Claritin

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

Pros and Cons for Claritin

Pros

First-choice option for allergies
Tends to cause less sleepiness than some other antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Liquid form and some chewable tablets okay for children as young as 2 years old to take

Cons

Can take 1 to 3 hours to start working
Regular tablets and quick-dissolving tablets not for children younger than 6
Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems

Common Side Effects for Claritin

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

Warnings for Claritin

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