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CETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE ALLERGY vs OPTIVAR

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 23, 2026·How we rate
cetirizine hydrochloride allergyoptivar

Rating

New
72/100

Pharmacy pays

$0.06 /mL
$0.58 /mL

Type

OTC
RX

Active ingredient

CETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE
AZELASTINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Manufacturer

Perrigo R and D
Rising

Dosage forms

Tablet
Drops

Drug class

Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist
Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist

Boxed warning

None
None

Half-life

about 8.3 hours (mean in healthy adults)
—

Treats

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Urticaria
Allergic Conjunctivitis, Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Vasomotor Rhinitis

Get optivarhigher-rated option

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Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, Cetirizine Hydrochloride Allergy or Optivar?

Cetirizine Hydrochloride Allergy costs pharmacies less to acquire — about $0.06 vs $0.58 per ml, per the CMS NADAC survey. That gap is in the pharmacy's cost of goods, not necessarily in what you pay: your price is set afterwards by your insurer and the pharmacy.

What is the difference between Cetirizine Hydrochloride Allergy and Optivar?

Cetirizine Hydrochloride Allergy contains Cetirizine Hydrochloride, while Optivar contains Azelastine Hydrochloride — they have different active ingredients.

Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.