What are the differences between Claritin and Claritin-D, and Allegra and Allegra-D?
Claritin (generic name loratadine) and Allegra (fexofenadine) are prescription antihistamines that work equally well at relieving allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. People with allergy symptoms plus a stuffy nose may benefit from the products Claritin-D and Allegra-D, in which the antihistamines are combined with the decongestant pseudoephedrine. These combination products should be relatively free of side effects, although the decongestant may cause insomnia for some people. If you have high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid or an enlarged prostate consult your doctor before taking pseudoephedrine-containing medicines like Claritin-D and Allegra-D. Claritin is available over-the-counter, Claritin-D is available behind-the-counter because it contain pseudoephedrine, and Allegra-D is available by prescription. Sources: Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006. Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006. Claritin product informat
