What is the Difference Between Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Cetirizine Hydrochloride?

Chlorpheniramine maleate and Cetirizine hydrochloride are both antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some differences in their properties and effects:

1. Generation: Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine, while Cetirizine hydrochloride is a second-generation antihistamine. Second-generation antihistamines, like Cetirizine, are known for having a longer duration of action and being less likely to cause sedation compared to first-generation antihistamines, like Chlorpheniramine.
2. Side Effects: Chlorpheniramine maleate is more likely to cause side effects such as blurred vision, constipation, and dizziness, while Cetirizine is known as a non-drowsy antihistamine, making it less likely to cause sleepiness. Both medications can cause common side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and headache.
3. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Status: Chlorpheniramine maleate is available in both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) forms, while Cetirizine is also available in OTC forms.
4. Ratings: Users have rated Chlorpheniramine and Cetirizine differently on Drugs.com. Chlorpheniramine has an average rating of 8.2 out of 10 from a total of 51 ratings, with 81% of reviewers reporting a positive effect. In comparison, Cetirizine has an average rating of 5.8 out of 10 from a total of 196 ratings, with 45% of reviewers reporting a positive effect.

In summary, Chlorpheniramine and Cetirizine are both antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, but they differ in their generation, side effects, availability, and user ratings. Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine known for its longer duration of action and reduced likelihood of causing sedation, while Chlorpheniramine is a first-generation antihistamine with a shorter duration of action and a higher likelihood of causing side effects such as blurred vision, constipation, and dizziness.

Comparative Table: Chlorpheniramine Maleate vs Cetirizine Hydrochloride

Chlorpheniramine maleate and Cetirizine hydrochloride are both antihistamines used to treat allergic reactions, hay fever, rhinitis, urticaria, and asthma. They work by blocking the activity of histamine H1 receptors. However, there are some differences between the two medications:

Both medications are available over the counter and can interact with alcohol. While they share some common side effects, chlorpheniramine maleate is more likely to cause other side effects like blurred vision, constipation, and dizziness.