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KARBINAL ER vs ZYRTEC HIVES

Independent side-by-side comparison.

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

Possible drug interaction. KARBINAL ER and ZYRTEC HIVES are different prescription medicines. Combining or switching between them can cause interactions — talk to a pharmacist or prescriber before making changes. This page is not medical advice.

Rating

New
70/100

Pharmacy pays

$0.44 /mL
$0.06 /mL

Type

RX
RX

Active ingredient

CARBINOXAMINE MALEATE
CETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Manufacturer

Dosage forms

Suspension, extended release
Solution

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

Angioedema, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Urticaria

Get zyrtec hiveshigher-rated option

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Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, Karbinal ER or Zyrtec Hives?

Zyrtec Hives costs pharmacies less to acquire — about $0.06 vs $0.44 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 Karbinal ER and Zyrtec Hives?

Karbinal ER contains Carbinoxamine Maleate, while Zyrtec Hives contains Cetirizine 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.