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Compare Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

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

Key takeaways

Olopatadine (Pataday) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) 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 caused by allergies, while cetirizine is taken orally to treat a broader range of allergy symptoms, including runny nose and watery eyes. Olopatadine is available over-the-counter and is used once or twice daily, depending on the strength. Cetirizine is also available over-the-counter and comes as tablets, chewable tablets, or liquid solutions. Cetirizine is typically taken once a day. Olopatadine can cause blurry vision and should not be used with contact lenses immediately after applying the drops, whereas cetirizine can cause drowsiness and is not recommended to be taken with alcohol. Additionally, cetirizine is safe for use during pregnancy, while you should consult your provider before using olopatadine if you're pregnant.

  • Olopatadine (Pataday)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
  • Olopatadine (Pataday)
    Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

  • Summary of Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

    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

    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 Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

    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, 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 Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

    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
    •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 Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

    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

    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 Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

    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
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication

  • Prices with our coupons for Olopatadine vs. Zyrtec

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    Learn more about Cetirizine

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