Telfast vs Zyrtec
A side-by-side look at two allergy medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| NZ Telfast | NZ Zyrtec | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | fexofenadine | cetirizine |
| Drug class | Second-Generation Antihistamine | Second-Generation Antihistamine |
| Treats | Hay fever, allergic rhinitis, hives | Hay fever, allergies, hives |
| Category | Allergy | Allergy |
| Manufacturer | Sanofi | Johnson & Johnson |
| Year approved | 1996 | 1995 |
| FDA warning | No boxed warning | No boxed warning |
| Est. TV ad spend | $4M | $4M |
| Common side effects | Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, Drowsiness (uncommon) | Drowsiness, Dry mouth, Fatigue, Headache |
Frequently asked questions
Is Telfast or Zyrtec better?
Neither is universally "better." Telfast (fexofenadine) 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 Telfast and Zyrtec?
Telfast is a Second-Generation Antihistamine made by Sanofi, 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?
Telfast has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.