Aerius vs. Claritin

Attribute	Aerius	Claritin
Brand Name	Aerius	Claritin
Active Ingredient	Desloratadine	Loratadine
Uses	Allergy relief	Allergy relief
Duration of Action	24 hours	24 hours
Prescription Required	No	No

Introduction

Allergies can be a real nuisance, especially during peak seasons when pollen counts are high. Fortunately, there are several over-the-counter medications available to help alleviate allergy symptoms. Two popular options are Aerius and Claritin. Both medications are antihistamines that work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system in response to allergens. While both Aerius and Claritin are effective in treating allergies, they have some key differences in terms of their attributes and how they work.

Active Ingredient

Aerius, also known by its generic name desloratadine, contains desloratadine as its active ingredient. Desloratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to first-generation antihistamines. On the other hand, Claritin, also known as loratadine, contains loratadine as its active ingredient. Loratadine is also a second-generation antihistamine that is non-sedating. Both desloratadine and loratadine are long-acting antihistamines, providing relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours.

Effectiveness

When it comes to effectiveness, both Aerius and Claritin are considered to be equally effective in treating allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. However, some studies have suggested that desloratadine may be slightly more potent than loratadine in relieving symptoms. This may be due to the fact that desloratadine is the active metabolite of loratadine, meaning it is the compound that loratadine is converted into in the body.

Onset of Action

One key difference between Aerius and Claritin is their onset of action. Aerius is known to have a faster onset of action, with some studies showing that it can start working within 30 minutes of taking the medication. On the other hand, Claritin may take up to an hour to start working. This difference in onset of action may be important for individuals who need quick relief from their allergy symptoms.

Side Effects

Both Aerius and Claritin are generally well-tolerated and have few side effects. The most common side effects of both medications include headache, dry mouth, and fatigue. However, some individuals may experience less common side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or abdominal pain. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking either medication, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Availability

Aerius and Claritin are both available over-the-counter in most pharmacies and drug stores. They are also available in various formulations, including tablets, liquid gels, and syrup. Aerius is available in a 5mg tablet, while Claritin is available in a 10mg tablet. Both medications are also available in children's formulations, making them suitable for individuals of all ages.

Cost

When it comes to cost, Aerius is generally more expensive than Claritin. This may be due to the fact that Aerius is a newer medication and may be perceived as more effective by some individuals. However, Claritin is a more cost-effective option for individuals looking to save money on their allergy medication. It is important to consider your budget and insurance coverage when choosing between Aerius and Claritin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Aerius and Claritin are effective antihistamines that can help alleviate allergy symptoms. While they have similar mechanisms of action and are equally effective in treating allergies, they have some key differences in terms of their active ingredients, onset of action, and cost. Ultimately, the choice between Aerius and Claritin will depend on individual preferences, such as how quickly you need relief from your symptoms and how much you are willing to spend on medication. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.