Claratyne vs Zyrtec
A side-by-side look at two allergy medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| NZ Claratyne | NZ Zyrtec | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | loratadine | cetirizine |
| Drug class | Second-Generation Antihistamine | Second-Generation Antihistamine |
| Treats | Hay fever, allergic rhinitis, hives | Hay fever, allergies, hives |
| Category | Allergy | Allergy |
| Manufacturer | Bayer | Johnson & Johnson |
| Year approved | 1988 | 1995 |
| FDA warning | No boxed warning | No boxed warning |
| Est. TV ad spend | $6M | $4M |
| Common side effects | Headache, Dry mouth, Fatigue, Nausea | Drowsiness, Dry mouth, Fatigue, Headache |
Frequently asked questions
Is Claratyne or Zyrtec better?
Neither is universally "better." Claratyne (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine) are both used for allergy, but the right choice depends on your medical history, insurance and your doctor's guidance. This comparison is informational only.
What's the difference between Claratyne and Zyrtec?
Claratyne is a Second-Generation Antihistamine made by Bayer, while Zyrtec is a Second-Generation Antihistamine made by Johnson & Johnson. See the table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
Which one spends more on TV ads?
Claratyne has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.