Claritin vs Zyrtec: Differences, Effectiveness & Generics
Table of Contents
- Explore the Generic Alternatives
- Claritin vs Zyrtec: Understanding Allergy Medications
- Claritin vs Zyrtec: Generic Options
- Claritin vs GoodSense Loratadine 10 mg
- What are the inactive ingredients in Claritin and GoodSense Loratadine
- Zyrtec vs Perrigo Cetirizine HCl 10 mg
- What are the inactive ingredients in Zyrtec and Perrigo Cetirizine
- Claritin vs Zyrtec: Products Mentioned
- About Xeteor
- FAQs
Claritin vs Zyrtec is the most common allergy comparison. The main difference is simple: Zyrtec (Cetirizine) works faster, often within one hour, but has a higher chance of causing drowsiness. Claritin (Loratadine) is fully non-drowsy, but can take 2-3 hours to start working. Both are highly effective second-generation antihistamines for sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, and runny nose.
Explore the Generic Alternatives
You've learned the difference, now see the generics. Explore our in-depth guides to find the right cost-saving option for you:
This guide will dive deeper into a side-by-side comparison of effectiveness, side effects, and our "Premium vs. Value" generic options (like GoodSense, Major, and Rugby) so you can choose the right medicine for your symptoms and budget.
Claritin vs Zyrtec: Understanding Allergy Medications
Before we get into specific pros and cons for Claritin vs Zyrtec, it helps to understand how they work. The active ingredient in Claritin is loratadine. The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine. Both block histamine, which is a chemical that triggers many seasonal allergy symptoms. Reducing the effect of histamine is what brings relief.
Claritin | Loratadine: Your Daytime Ally
Pros
- Non drowsy profile. Many people tolerate loratadine well during the day.
- Once daily relief. A single dose provides up to 24 hours of symptom control.
- Multiple formats. Tablets, liqui gels, and syrups are widely available over the counter.
Cons
- Slower onset for some. It may take longer to feel full effect compared with cetirizine.
- May be less helpful for nasal congestion. If congestion is the main complaint, some users prefer cetirizine.
Zyrtec | Cetirizine: The Rapid Relief Provider
Pros
- Helps with nasal symptoms. Many users report good relief for congestion along with sneezing and itching.
- Faster onset. Cetirizine commonly begins to work within about an hour.
- Broad age range. Approved for adults and children with age based dosing.
Cons
- Drowsiness possible. A subset of users feel sleepy, especially with the first few doses.
- Individual variability. A small number of users find it too sedating for daytime use.
Claritin vs Zyrtec: Which Should I Take
If you are deciding between Claritin vs Zyrtec, think about your top symptoms and when you plan to take the dose. Claritin with loratadine is a good fit when you want a non drowsy daytime option and your symptoms are mostly sneezing and itchy eyes. Zyrtec with cetirizine is a strong choice when nasal congestion is more prominent or you want faster perceived relief. The best choice often comes down to how your body responds to each active ingredient.
Claritin vs Zyrtec: Generic Options
Some shoppers have noticed Perrigo Cetirizine harder to find in stores and online. It has not been discontinued. The product is now sold under the Padagis brand with the same FDA approved formula. Learn more in our update: Perrigo Cetirizine Discontinued? What You Need to Know.
If you want more choices beyond Claritin vs Zyrtec, explore our guide to Zyrtec Generic Alternatives for a full view of brand and generic options.
The active ingredient in Claritin is Loratadine 10 mg: Antihistamine
We recommend GoodSense Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg with significant savings compared with brand name Claritin. Here is how it compares to brand name Claritin.
Shop GoodSense Loratadine 10 mg 365 Tablets
Claritin vs GoodSense Loratadine 10 mg
| Compare | Claritin | GoodSense Loratadine |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Loratadine 10 mg | |
| Inactive Ingredients | Corn Starch, Lactose Monohydrate, Magnesium Stearate | Lactose Monohydrate, Magnesium Stearate, Povidone, Pregelatinized Starch |
| FDA Approved | ✅ | ✅ |
| Reviews | 6,876 | 37,527 |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| Cost | $36.40 | $18.99 |
| Number of Tablets | 100 | 365 |
| Cost per Tablet | $0.36 | $0.05 |
Disclosure: The Claritin link above is an Amazon affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
What are the inactive ingredients in Claritin and GoodSense Loratadine
- Corn Starch. Common filler and binder that helps give tablets shape and even distribution of ingredients.
- Lactose Monohydrate. Widely used as a filler and binder to provide tablet structure.
- Magnesium Stearate. Lubricant that helps powders flow and prevents sticking during manufacturing.
- Povidone. Binder and disintegrant that supports tablet cohesion and dissolution.
- Pregelatinized Starch. Binder and disintegrant that supports proper tablet breakdown for absorption.
The active ingredient in Zyrtec is Cetirizine HCl 10 mg: Antihistamine
We recommend Perrigo Cetirizine HCl 10 mg with savings of up to 89 percent off the price of brand name Zyrtec. Here is how it compares to brand name Zyrtec.
The active ingredient in Zyrtec is Cetirizine HCl 10 mg: Antihistamine
We recommend Perrigo Cetirizine HCl 10 mg with major savings compared to brand name Zyrtec. Here is how it compares to brand name Zyrtec.
Shop Perrigo Cetirizine HCl 10 mg – 300 Tablets
Zyrtec vs Perrigo Cetirizine HCl 10 mg
| Compare | Zyrtec | Perrigo Cetirizine |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg | |
| Inactive Ingredients | Colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, titanium dioxide | Corn starch, FD&C blue no. 1 aluminum lake, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, polydextrose, polyethylene glycol, povidone, titanium dioxide, triacetin |
| FDA Approved | ✅ | ✅ |
| Reviews | 4,869 | 330 |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 |
| Cost | $41.99 | $15.99 |
| Number of Tablets | 90 | 300 |
| Cost per Tablet | $0.46 | $0.05 |
Disclosure: The Zyrtec link above is an Amazon affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
What are the inactive ingredients in Zyrtec and Perrigo Cetirizine
- Colloidal Silicon Dioxide. Fine powder that prevents clumping and improves powder flow.
- Croscarmellose Sodium. Disintegrant that helps tablets dissolve quickly in the digestive tract.
- Hypromellose. Film former and thickener that helps with tablet coating and release.
- Lactose Monohydrate. Common filler and binder that gives tablets structure.
- Magnesium Stearate. Lubricant that prevents sticking during manufacturing.
- Microcrystalline Cellulose. Binder and bulking agent that supports tablet integrity.
- Polyethylene Glycol. Solvent and stabilizer used in coatings and formulations.
- Titanium Dioxide. Coloring and whitening agent for tablets.
- Corn Starch. Filler and binder in Perrigo’s version.
- FD&C Blue No. 1 Aluminum Lake. Color additive used in Perrigo Cetirizine.
- Polydextrose. Filler and stabilizer in Perrigo formulations.
- Povidone. Binder and stabilizer aiding tablet cohesion.
- Triacetin. Plasticizer and solvent used in Perrigo coatings.
Related Allergy Guides
Claritin vs Zyrtec: Products Mentioned
Perrigo Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg - 300 Tablets | Zyrtec
$13.99
Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg Tablets – 300 Count | Generic Zyrtec® by Perrigo Save on allergy relief with this trusted Zyrtec® generic. Perrigo Cetirizine Hydrochloride...… read more
Padagis / Perrigo Antihistamine Allergy Relief - 300 Tablets (2 Pack)
$26.99
Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg – 600 Tablets (2 Pack) | Generic Zyrtec® by Padagis / Perrigo Save more with our best value pack. This 2-pack...… read more
GoodSense Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg - 90 Tablets | Compare to Claritin
$6.99
GoodSense® Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg - 90 Tablets Compare to the active ingredient of Claritin® Tablets Find powerful, non-drowsy relief from common indoor and...… read more
GoodSense Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg - 90 Tablets | Compare to Claritin (3 Pack)
$19.99
GoodSense® Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg – 90 Tablets (3 Pack) | Compare to Claritin® Tablets Get dependable, non-drowsy allergy relief with GoodSense® Loratadine 10...… read more
GoodSense Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg - 365 Tablets | Compare to Claritin
$18.99
GoodSense® Allergy Relief Loratadine 10 mg – 365 Tablets | Compare to Claritin® GoodSense® Loratadine 10 mg provides original prescription-strength, 24-hour relief from common allergy...… read more
About Xeteor
xeteor.com, founded in Las Vegas in 2018, is a trusted online guide and curated retailer for generic over the counter medications. We operate like a family owned business, selecting a portfolio that includes premium generics like GoodSense and Foster & Thrive, as well as trusted options such as Major Pharmaceuticals, Rugby Laboratories, Oncor Pharmaceuticals, and CareSens. Recognized as a Top Rated seller on Trustpilot, Google, eBay, Amazon, and Walmart, we focus on education, service, and value for every customer.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
FAQs
Is generic Zyrtec as good as brand Zyrtec?
Yes. Generic Zyrtec, known as cetirizine, has the exact same active ingredient as the brand. FDA testing ensures it is equally safe and effective. The main differences are packaging, price, and brand recognition.
Is generic Claritin as good as brand Claritin?
Yes. Generic loratadine is FDA-approved and clinically identical to Claritin. The difference comes down to cost and branding, not how well it works.
Which works faster: Claritin or Zyrtec?
Zyrtec (cetirizine) usually starts working within 1 hour, while Claritin (loratadine) can take longer to reach full effect, sometimes a couple of days of consistent use.
Which is less likely to cause drowsiness: Claritin or Zyrtec?
Claritin is considered more “non-drowsy,” while Zyrtec may cause drowsiness in a small percentage of people. Many users tolerate both well, but if daytime alertness is critical, Claritin is often the safer choice.
Who makes GoodSense and Perrigo Cetirizine?
GoodSense is owned by Perrigo, a global pharmaceutical manufacturer. Perrigo also makes store-brand cetirizine for Walmart (Equate) and produces its own labeled Perrigo Cetirizine sold online.
Why is brand Zyrtec more expensive than generics?
Zyrtec is more costly because of marketing and brand positioning. Generics like Perrigo Cetirizine or Major Cetirizine skip those expenses, so they can be sold at a fraction of the price.
Can children take Claritin or Zyrtec generics?
Yes, both loratadine and cetirizine are available in children’s formulations. Always check the label for age-specific dosing, and consult a pediatrician if you’re unsure.
