(Click under Resources at right on the Consumer Reports site to download full 16-page report)
This report (Available en espagnol) evaluates four newer antihistamines. Studies show them to be equally effective. All cause less drowsiness than the older antihistamines sold widely as nonprescription drugs (such as Benadryl Allergy, Chlor-Trimeton Allergy, and Dimetapp Allergy). However, the newer drugs are no more effective than the older ones at relieving symptoms.
The cost for the newer medicines varies from about $3 to more than $150 per month. This report shows how you could save $1,400 a year or more if you are currently taking an expensive brand-name antihistamine. Taking dosing convenience, cost, and evidence of effectiveness and safety into account, we have selected the following as Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs:
- Loratadine 10mg tablets
- Loratadine dissolving 10mg tablets
- Loratadine syrup 10mg
- Alavert tablets 10mg
- Alavert dissolving 10mg tablets
- Alavert syrup 10mg
- Tavist ND 10mg tablets
All are low-cost generics available without a prescription in drug and food stores. All are as effective and safe as the three prescription-only antihistamines [fexofenadine (Allegra), desloratadine (Clarinex) and cetirizine (Zyrtec)] at comparable doses. All contain loratadine, the active ingredient in the nonprescription drug Claritin (until 2002 a best- selling prescription drug).
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