What is a substitute for Benadryl?
OTC antihistamines include:
- Brompheniramine (Dimetane)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
- Clemastine (Tavist)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Loratadine (Alavert, Claritin)
What is the active ingredient in antihistamines?
The first-generation antihistamine diphenhydramine is the main active ingredient in Benadryl. Benadryl helps relieve runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and nose or throat itching.
What is the active ingredient in non drowsy Benadryl?
Diphenhydramine is the active ingredient in Benadryl as well as OTC sleep aids. While there isn’t a non-drowsy Benadryl product available, there are non-sedating antihistamines, such as Zyrtec or Allegra. Restlessness is one side effect of Zyrtec, though, so it may not be the best option to take before bedtime.
What is the strongest OTC antihistamine?
Best OTC Allergy Medications
| Types of Diet | Forbes Health Ratings | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Claritin 24-Hour Allergy Relief | 5.0 | Best OTC Allergy Medicine Overall |
| Zyrtec 24 Hour Allergy Relief | 4.0 | Best OTC Allergy Medicine Overall Runner-Up |
| Nasacort Allergy 24 HR | 4.0 | Best Nasal Spray |
| Pataday Once Daily Extra Strength | 2.0 | Best Eye Drop |
Are Benadryl and Diphenhydramine the same thing?
Benadryl is available in generic forms, which are often store-brand products. The generic name of Benadryl is diphenhydramine.
Is betahistine dihydrochloride and antihistamine?
Yes, it is. Betahistine is a medicine called a histamine analogue. It works by increasing the effect of a natural substance called histamine in your inner ear. Antihistamines work by stopping histamine affecting the cells in your body.