| Zyrtec | Benadryl | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | cetirizine | diphenhydramine |
| Active ingredient | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg | Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill) | Oral antihistamine (pill), older type |
| Label uses | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat, common cold symptoms |
| Nasal congestion on label | No | No |
| Drowsiness | May cause drowsiness | Marked drowsiness |
| How often | Once a day | Every 4 to 6 hours |
| Youngest age on label | 6 years | 6 years |
| Maximum | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours | 6 doses 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: Zyrtec: The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving. Benadryl: The label warns "marked drowsiness may occur", and that excitability may occur, especially in children.
Dosing: Zyrtec is once a day; Benadryl is every 4 to 6 hours.
Which might suit you
- you want a single daily pill
- you want a dose you can repeat every 4 to 6 hours and drowsiness is not a problem
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
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.
Benadryl
- Adults and children 12 and over: 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
- Children 6 to under 12: 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
- Children under 6: Do not use.
Key warnings
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.
Benadryl
- Do not use with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on the skin.
- Do not use to make a child sleepy.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have glaucoma, a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate.
- Marked drowsiness may occur; excitability may occur, especially in children.
Compare prices for Zyrtec Compare prices for Benadryl
Frequently asked questions
Is Zyrtec or Benadryl 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 Zyrtec and Benadryl together?
Both are antihistamines, and the labels don't cover combining them. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining allergy medicines.
Sources: Zyrtec Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label); Benadryl Allergy Drug Facts label (OTCLabels, from DailyMed). Checked October 17, 2026. Not medical advice. How we check.