MomOf2 asked
I am looking for an over the counter allergy medication for my children, but one that has the LEAST side effects.
Answer
Loratadine (Alavert, Claritin) and fexofenadine (Allegra) are allergy medications available over-the-counter for children that, for most individuals, have the least side effects.
Antihistamines And Side Effects
Antihistamines are classified by their "generation", such as first-generation, second-generation and so on.
First-generation antihistamines include:
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
- Tavist (Clemastine)
- Chlor-Trimeton (Chlorpheniramine)
- Dimetapp (Brompheniramine)
These drugs have more side effects than second-generation antihistamines and cause drowsiness much more commonly. Many of the first-generation antihistamines are used in products to help you fall asleep as well, so the drowsiness can be very strong. In fact, ZzzQuil contains diphenhydramine as the active ingredient.
Second-generation antihistamines include:
- Claritin (Loratadine)
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
- Allegra (Fexofenadine)
These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness. Claritin and Allegra are classified and marketed as "non-drowsy". Zyrtec can cause drowsiness in a small percentage of people and is therefore not classified as non-drowsy.
Specifically, studies show that Claritin (loratadine) and Allegra (fexofenadine) have the lowest rates of drowsiness, with it occurring in 2-4% of patients compared to 22% in patients who take Zyrtec (cetirizine).
There is one third-generation over the counter antihistamine available, known as Xyzal (levocetirizine), although that can cause drowsiness as well.
Aside from drowsiness, over the counter antihistamines can have the following side effects:
- Headache
- Dry eyes
- Fatigue
- Nervousness
Claritin and Allegra are similar in terms of incidence for these side effects. They are generally the best tolerated.
Antihistamine Choices For Children
The following antihistamines are available for children ages 2 years and older:
- Claritin, Alavert (Loratadine)
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
- Allegra (Fexofenadine)
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine )
- Dimetapp (Brompheniramine )
The following antihistamines are available for children ages 6 years and older:
- Chlor-Trimeton (Chlorpheniramine)
- Tavist (Clemastine)
Summary
Claritin (loratadine) and Allegra (fexofenadine) have similar side effects and very low rates of drowsiness.
That being said, everyone is different, and your child may have more side effects or better symptom relief with one of them versus others. It is reasonable to try either one or base your decision on price or flavor.
