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CETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE vs OPTIVAR

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 22, 2026·How we rate

Rating

68/100
72/100

Pharmacy pays

$0.06 /mL
$0.58 /mL

Type

OTC
RX

Active ingredient

CETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE
AZELASTINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Dosage forms

Solution, 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

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Frequently asked questions

Which is better-rated, Cetirizine Hydrochloride or Optivar?

By our independent rating, Optivar scores higher — 3.6 vs 3.4 out of 5 for Cetirizine Hydrochloride. Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data.

Which is cheaper, Cetirizine Hydrochloride or Optivar?

Cetirizine Hydrochloride 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 and Optivar?

Cetirizine Hydrochloride 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.