| Claritin | Zyrtec | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | loratadine | cetirizine |
| Active ingredient | Loratadine 10 mg | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill) | Oral antihistamine (pill) |
| Label uses | runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose or throat | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat |
| Nasal congestion on label | No | No |
| Drowsiness | Labeled non-drowsy | May cause drowsiness |
| How often | Once a day | Once a day |
| Youngest age on label | 6 years | 6 years |
| Maximum | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours |
The main differences
Both are oral antihistamines and list the same core uses on the label: itching of the nose or throat, itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing.
On drowsiness: Claritin: The carton says "Non-Drowsy" when taken as directed. Taking more than directed may cause drowsiness. Zyrtec: The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving.
Which might suit you
- you need to stay alert during the day
- you want a single daily pill
- you want a single daily pill
This is based only on what the two labels say. Neither label claims to work better than the other. A pharmacist can help if you have other conditions or take other medicines.
Dose by age
Claritin
- Adults and children 6 years and over: 1 tablet daily. Not more than 1 tablet in 24 hours.
- Children under 6: Ask a doctor.
- Liver or kidney disease: Ask a doctor.
Zyrtec
- Adults and children 6 years and over: One 10 mg tablet once daily. Do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. The label notes a 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.
- Adults 65 and over: Ask a doctor.
- Children under 6: Ask a doctor.
- Liver or kidney disease: Ask a doctor.
Key warnings
Claritin
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have liver or kidney disease.
- Do not take more than directed.
- If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.
Zyrtec
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients, or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have liver or kidney disease.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take tranquilizers or sedatives.
- If breast-feeding: not recommended. If pregnant: ask a health professional before use.
Compare prices for Claritin Compare prices for Zyrtec
Frequently asked questions
Is Claritin or Zyrtec better?
Neither label claims to work better than the other. Which suits you depends on your symptoms, age, and whether drowsiness matters, as compared above. A pharmacist can help you choose.
Can you take Claritin and Zyrtec together?
Both are antihistamines, and the labels don't cover combining them. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining allergy medicines.
Sources: Claritin Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label); Zyrtec Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label). Checked October 17, 2026. Not medical advice. How we check.