Research shows that Zyrtec (generic cetirizine) andClaritin (generic loratadine) don’t really differ in how well they work, how safe they are, and the side effects they cause. So either is a fine choice to treat annoying allergy symptoms, including those from seasonal hay fever as well as hives. Some people find that one drug works best for them, so if Claritin doesn’t work well for you, try Zyrtec or Allegra (fexofenadine), another good choice. Alavert also contains loratadine.

 

Those products are less likely to make you drowsy than older antihistamines such as brompheniramine(Dimetapp), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton Allergy), clemastine (Tavist), and diphenhydramine(Benadryl Allergy). But even newer antihistamines can make you feel sleepy or sedated, especially at higher doses. So if one leaves you fuzzy-headed, try another and see whether you feel better.