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Compare Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

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

  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Diphenhydramine
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Diphenhydramine

  • Summary of Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    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).

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Diphenhydramine, also known by the brand name Benadryl, is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve allergy or common cold symptoms in adults and children. It comes as pills and a liquid and is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Because it can make you drowsy, some people also use it as a sleep aid at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

  • Indications of Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    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
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of allergy or common cold symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes) - people 6 years and older
    •Occasional trouble sleeping - people 12 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    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.
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Relieves allergy and cold symptoms in about 15 to 30 minutes
    •Safe for children as young as 6 years old
    •Available over the counter
    •Comes as pills and liquid
    Cons
    •Can make you feel sleepy or dizzy
    •Might need to take multiple times a day for symptom relief
    •Not the best choice for older adults
    •Can worsen certain conditions like glaucoma and stomach ulcers

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidental overdose
    •Worsening of certain health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec vs. Benadryl

    Learn more about Cetirizine
    Learn more about Diphenhydramine

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