Allergies can make life miserable. Runny noses, itchy eyes, sneezing – allergy symptoms seem endless. Many allergy sufferers rely on over-the-counter medications like Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy to get relief. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
This comprehensive guide compares Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy head-to-head. We’ll look at key factors like ingredients, dosage, cost, and side effects. Read on to learn the pros and cons of each so you can decide which allergy medicine is best for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Zyrtec | Amazon Allergy |
| Active Ingredient | Cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg | Loratadine 10mg |
| Forms Available | Tablets, chewables, liquid syrup | Tablets |
| Adult Dosage | 10mg tablet once daily | 10mg tablet once daily |
| Onset of Action | 1-3 hours | 1-3 hours |
| Duration of Effects | 24 hours | 24 hours |
| Cost for 30 tablets | $18-$25 | $12-$15 |
| Cost for 100 tablets | $40-$60 | $20-$25 |
| Common Side Effects | Drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache | Drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache |
| Drug Interactions | Alcohol, sleep aids, anxiety medication, antacids | Alcohol, sleep aids, anxiety medication, antacids |
| Safety Considerations | Use caution with kidney disease. Safe during pregnancy. | Use caution with kidney disease. Safe during pregnancy. |
| Age Recommendations | Ages 6 and up | Ages 12 and up |
| Brand Reputation | Well-known, 25+ years on market | Less established, generic competitor |
Overview Of Active Ingredients
The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. This is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. By preventing histamine from attaching to receptors, cetirizine provides allergy symptom relief.
Amazon Allergy contains loratadine as its active ingredient. Like cetirizine, loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine. It works the same way – by preventing histamine from causing allergy symptoms.
Both cetirizine and loratadine are selective, meaning they target histamine receptors and are less likely to cause drowsiness compared to older antihistamines like Benadryl.
Dosage Forms And Strengths
Zyrtec is available in 10 mg tablets, 5 mg chewable tablets, and 1 mg/mL syrup. The standard adult dose for all forms is 10 mg once daily.
Amazon Allergy comes as 10 mg tablets. The recommended dosage for adults and children over 12 years is also 10 mg once per day.
So in terms of strength, the two medications are identical. The difference lies in additional dosage forms. Zyrtec offers a chewable option and liquid for children, while Amazon Allergy is tablets only.
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Cost Comparison
When comparing prices, Amazon Allergy tends to be more affordable than Zyrtec.
For example, a 30-count bottle of Zyrtec 10 mg tablets typically costs between $18-$25. Amazon Allergy tablets are priced lower – usually $12-$15 for 30 tablets. The 100-count bottles show an even wider price gap. Zyrtec 100 tablets range from $40-$60, while Amazon Allergy for the same count is $20-$25.
Zyrtec does have coupons available fairly often – watch for savings like $4 off or buy one, get one 50% off. But even with coupons, Amazon Allergy remains the less expensive option for the same active ingredient.
If you require the children’s Zyrtec syrup, expect to pay a premium. A small 5 oz bottle of Zyrtec syrup costs $25 or more. The chewables are also pricier than the Amazon Allergy tablets.
Overall, Amazon Allergy provides a significant cost savings over Zyrtec. If you don’t need the liquid or chewable forms, the Amazon brand is the budget-friendly choice.
Effectiveness And Onset Of Action
Studies show cetirizine and loratadine are equally effective at relieving allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Most people experience relief within 1-3 hours with either medication. Maximum effect is seen after about 8-12 hours.
The antihistamine effects last for full 24 hour periods with once daily dosing. Neither Zyrtec nor Amazon Allergy build up in the body over time, so taking them daily provides continuous relief without increased side effects.
For seasonal allergies, you may only need to take Zyrtec or Amazon Allergy during peak pollen times. For year-round allergies like pet dander or dust mites, daily medication is usually recommended.
Also Read: Is Aveeno Eczema Balm Better Than Cream?
Side Effects And Safety
Both cetirizine and loratadine have relatively low risk of side effects due to being second-generation antihistamines. The most common side effects are:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
These effects are usually mild. Drowsiness is unlikely but can occur. Taking the medication at bedtime reduces daytime sleepiness.
Rare but more serious side effects include difficulty breathing, tightness in chest, swelling of face/mouth, and rash. Discontinue use and seek medical help immediately if any severe reactions occur.
As far as drug interactions, both Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy have minimal concerns. The sedating effects may be increased when combined with alcohol, sleep aids, or anxiety medication. Antacids can also slow absorption.
Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy are pregnancy category B, meaning they are considered safe to use during pregnancy after discussion with a doctor. Small amounts of cetirizine and loratadine pass into breastmilk, but are not expected to cause issues for a nursing infant. Children ages 6 and up can use the adult tablets, while Zyrtec offers kid-friendly options starting at age 2.
Neither medication should be taken by anyone with severe kidney disease. And as always, check with your doctor before starting any new medication, especially if you take other prescriptions.
Overall, both Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy are very low risk. Side effects are uncommon and similar between the two. Amazon Allergy provides comparable safety to the widely used Zyrtec brand.
Additional Factors To Consider
Here are a few other variables that may sway your decision between Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy:
- Brand reputation – Zyrtec is an established brand name that’s been around for over 25 years. Amazon Allergy is newer to the market, but so far reviews indicate similar effectiveness.
- Onset of action – Some find Zyrtec kicks in a little faster (about 1 hour) versus 1-2 hours for Amazon Allergy. This varies person-to-person however.
- Ingredient source – Amazon Allergy tablets are sourced from Europe, while Zyrtec Active tablets are made in USA facilities. For some, buying American-made allergy medicine is preferred.
- Tablet coatings – The coating may differ between generics and name brands. Those sensitive to pill coatings might see variances in tolerance.
- Range of products – Zyrtec has an edge for offering multiple formulations like dissolvable tabs and liquid. Amazon Allergy is limited to tablet form only.
As you can see, the biggest differences come down to brand trust and number of options. The tablets themselves are virtually interchangeable.
Also watch this video about Zyrtec!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
There’s no definitive “best” allergy medication that outperforms Zyrtec. Zyrtec (cetirizine) consistently ranks among the most effective over-the-counter antihistamines for allergic rhinitis. Some alternatives like Claritin (loratadine) and Allegra (fexofenadine) work just as well for most people.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays can also be very effective for allergies. Discuss options with your doctor to find your optimal allergy relief.
Many consumers have success using generic cetirizine, which has the same active ingredient as Zyrtec. Good cetirizine brands include Kirkland Signature (Costco), Amazon Allergy Relief, CVS. Health Cetirizine, Equate (Walmart), and Up & Up (Target). Compare ingredients and prices to choose a generic cetirizine that fits your budget.
Yes, over-the-counter Zyrtec contains the same active ingredient (cetirizine hydrochloride) as prescription Zyrtec. The only difference is the prescription comes in higher doses of 5 mg/mL or 10 mg/mL oral solution. But the standard 10 mg tablet is identical whether bought over-the-counter or prescribed.
Multiple studies show the efficacy and safety of generic cetirizine is equivalent to brand name Zyrtec. The FDA ensures generic versions contain the identical medically active component and are absorbed similarly in the body.
Generics may differ in inactive fillers or coatings. But in terms of relieving allergy symptoms, generic cetirizine works just as well as Zyrtec.
Also Read: Differences Between Bengay And Salonpas.
The Verdict
After looking closely at ingredients, cost, effectiveness, and side effects, is one allergy medicine a clear winner between Zyrtec and Amazon Allergy?
For cost-conscious shoppers, Amazon Allergy provides significant savings – often 50% less than Zyrtec. The loratadine tablets offer comparable 24-hour relief.
Brand-loyal users may prefer consistent Zyrtec products they’ve used successfully for years. And Zyrtec liquid or chewables are the only options for young kids.
Those wanting fast-acting relief might choose name brand Zyrtec, though evidence on quicker onset is mixed.
No matter which you select, cetirizine and loratadine are equally effective antihistamines proven to tackle allergy symptoms. Pick the one that aligns best with your needs and budget.
For seasonal allergies, consider starting with Amazon Allergy. It provides the same benefits as Zyrtec at a lower upfront cost. If it doesn’t offer enough relief, then opt for Zyrtec products. This allows you to try the inexpensive generic before spending more on name brand.
Whichever allergy medicine you choose, be sure to combine it with other beneficial practices – avoiding triggers when possible, using nasal saline rinses, trying allergen immunotherapies, and seeing an allergist for severe symptoms. With the right treatment plan, you can finally breathe easy during allergy season.
