Claritin vs. Astelin

See how Claritin and Astelin compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Claritin is an oral antihistamine taken once daily, while Astelin is a nasal spray antihistamine used twice daily directly in the nose.

  • Astelin can treat non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis, a use Claritin does not have FDA approval for.

  • Claritin is available over the counter and typically costs less each month than the prescription-only Astelin nasal spray.

Claritin vs. Astelin Drug Summary

Claritin

Claritin is a second-generation oral antihistamine that treats seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis and chronic hives. It is taken once daily as a tablet, chewable, or syrup, and causes little sedation compared to older antihistamines. Claritin is available over the counter without a prescription.

Astelin

Astelin is a prescription antihistamine nasal spray used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis and vasomotor (non-allergic) rhinitis. It is sprayed directly into each nostril twice daily and acts locally on nasal tissue. Because it works right where symptoms occur, some patients notice faster relief of nasal congestion and drip.

Claritin vs. Astelin Side Effects

Claritin

Most common
headache (up to 12%)
somnolence (up to 8%)
fatigue (up to 4%)
dry mouth (up to 3%)

Astelin

Most common
headache (≥2%)
somnolence (≥2%)
bitter taste (≥2%)
nasal burning (≥2%)

Claritin vs. Astelin Dosage

Claritin

Dosage
Dosage Table
STAGE DOSE WHEN
Starting dose 5 mg once daily At the start
Maximum dose 10 mg once daily If needed
Dose changes 1 increase As tolerated

Astelin

Dosage
Dosage Table
STAGE DOSE WHEN
Starting dose 1 spray/nostril, 2x daily At the start
Maximum dose 2 sprays/nostril, 2x daily If needed
Dose changes 1 increase As tolerated

Claritin vs. Astelin Indications

Claritin

Claritin relieves classic allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes caused by seasonal or year-round allergens. It is also FDA-approved for chronic idiopathic urticaria, reducing hives and associated itching. It is not approved for cold symptoms or asthma.

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis symptom relief

  • Perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis relief

  • Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives) and itching

  • Available over the counter without a prescription

Astelin

Astelin treats seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children five and older, easing sneezing, congestion, and runny nose. It is also approved for vasomotor rhinitis, a non-allergic form of nasal inflammation triggered by irritants or weather changes. It is not approved for younger children or for vasomotor rhinitis under age 12.

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis (ages 5+)

  • Vasomotor (non-allergic) rhinitis (ages 12+)

  • Direct nasal spray delivery

  • Prescription-only nasal antihistamine

Claritin vs. Astelin Pros and Cons

Claritin

Claritin offers a simple once-daily oral option with minimal drowsiness, and it is sold over the counter in multiple forms for adults and children. It does not treat nasal congestion caused by non-allergic triggers, so people with vasomotor rhinitis may need a different option.

Pros

  • Available without a prescription

  • Multiple forms: tablet, chewable, syrup for kids

  • Minimal sedation for a once-daily antihistamine

Cons

  • Not approved for vasomotor (non-allergic) rhinitis

  • Oral form may act slower on nasal symptoms

  • Only oral dosing, no direct nasal application

Astelin

Astelin acts directly in the nose, which can help with vasomotor rhinitis that Claritin does not cover. It requires a prescription and twice-daily dosing, and its most common side effect, a bitter taste, can be off-putting for some patients.

Pros

  • Approved for vasomotor (non-allergic) rhinitis

  • Delivers medication directly to nasal tissue

  • Approved for seasonal allergies down to age 5

Cons

  • Requires a prescription, unlike Claritin

  • Dosed twice daily instead of once

  • Bitter taste is a common side effect

Common Symptoms and Related Diseases You Can Explore

Explore a range of common symptoms the Doctronic Symptom Checker can help you understand.