Is Histaclear the Same as Zyrtec? A Look at Active Ingredients and Effectiveness

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

While both are popular allergy medications, a key distinction lies in their active ingredients and formulation. The question, is Histaclear the same as Zyrtec?, requires a careful look at the compounds that provide relief and how they are synthesized for consumer use.

Quick Summary

Comparing Histaclear and Zyrtec, this guide clarifies the relationship between the two allergy medications, explaining their identical active ingredient, cetirizine hydrochloride, and how brand name recognition influences cost and availability.

Key Points

Shared Active Ingredient: Histaclear and Zyrtec both use cetirizine hydrochloride as their active ingredient, making them chemically the same drug for allergy relief.
Generic vs. Brand Name: Histaclear is often a regional or generic brand name for cetirizine, while Zyrtec is a widely recognized international brand. Generic versions typically offer the same effectiveness for a lower cost.
Second-Generation Antihistamines: Both medications are second-generation antihistamines, known for causing less drowsiness compared to first-generation options like Benadryl.
Regional Availability: The availability of Histaclear depends on the market, while Zyrtec has more widespread global distribution.
Formulations May Differ: While the active component is identical, inactive ingredients, such as fillers, flavorings, and coatings, can vary between Histaclear and Zyrtec.
Consider Xyzal Separately: Xyzal (levocetirizine) is a similar but distinct medication containing a purified enantiomer of cetirizine, which may offer slightly different effects and side-effect profiles for some users.
Cost is a Key Factor: Since they offer the same therapeutic effect, the decision to choose between brand-name Zyrtec and a generic version like Histaclear often comes down to price.

Both Histaclear and Zyrtec are brand-name allergy medications, but the fundamental answer to whether they are the same is rooted in their active ingredient: cetirizine hydrochloride. In many countries, Histaclear is simply a brand name for cetirizine, just as Zyrtec is. The active component that blocks histamine to relieve allergy symptoms is identical in both products. However, differences in inactive ingredients, formulations, and regional availability mean they aren't considered entirely interchangeable by every manufacturer or consumer.

The Active Ingredient: Cetirizine Hydrochloride

The power behind both Histaclear and Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. This compound is a second-generation antihistamine, which works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance the body releases during an allergic reaction. By inhibiting histamine, cetirizine reduces symptoms like sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and hives. The primary benefit of second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine over older, first-generation versions (such as diphenhydramine) is a lower likelihood of causing significant drowsiness.

Formulations and Generic Versions

Cetirizine hydrochloride is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, and liquid syrup. Both Zyrtec and generic cetirizine products are sold in these formats, which may vary by country and region. As with many brand-name medications that have a generic equivalent, the generic cetirizine found under various labels (including Histaclear in some regions) contains the exact same active ingredient in the same dosage as Zyrtec. The main differences between a brand-name product and its generic counterpart typically relate to the inactive ingredients, such as flavorings, binders, and coatings, which have no bearing on the medication's therapeutic effect.

Histaclear vs. Zyrtec: Key Differences and Considerations

While sharing the same active ingredient, the marketing, availability, and specific inactive ingredients can differentiate Histaclear from Zyrtec. A discerning consumer will notice these points:

Brand Reputation and Cost: Zyrtec is a well-established global brand, which often leads to a higher price point due to brand recognition and marketing. Generic cetirizine products, such as Histaclear in some markets, are typically more affordable while providing the same allergy relief.
Regional Availability: Histaclear is a specific brand name that may not be available in all countries. Zyrtec, on the other hand, is a widely recognized global brand. A person in one country may be more familiar with Histaclear, while someone in another is more familiar with Zyrtec or another generic cetirizine product.
Inactive Ingredients and Formulations: The inactive ingredients used in manufacturing can differ between brands. While this does not impact the core function of the drug, it can affect flavor (in the case of liquids or chewables), pill shape, or minor aspects of how the medication is processed.

The Relationship with Xyzal

It is important to not confuse Histaclear or Zyrtec with another similar allergy medication, Xyzal. Xyzal contains levocetirizine, which is a refined version of cetirizine. Cetirizine is a mixture of two enantiomers, levocetirizine and dextrocetirizine, while levocetirizine is the pure, active component. Some studies suggest levocetirizine (Xyzal) may cause less drowsiness than cetirizine (Zyrtec), although both are considered less sedating than first-generation antihistamines.

Comparison Table: Histaclear vs. Zyrtec vs. Xyzal


Feature	Histaclear (Cetirizine)	Zyrtec (Cetirizine)	Xyzal (Levocetirizine)
Active Ingredient	Cetirizine hydrochloride	Cetirizine hydrochloride	Levocetirizine dihydrochloride
Drug Type	Second-generation antihistamine	Second-generation antihistamine	Third-generation antihistamine
Onset of Action	Typically within 1 hour	Typically within 1 hour	As fast as 30-90 minutes
Duration of Effect	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours
Potential for Drowsiness	Low, but possible	Low, but possible	Lowest of the three
Availability	Dependent on regional market	Global brand, wide availability	Widely available, often more expensive
Cost	Often lower than Zyrtec	Typically higher than generic equivalents	Often higher than Zyrtec

How to Choose the Right Allergy Relief

Choosing between Histaclear and Zyrtec is straightforward once you know they contain the same active ingredient. Your decision will likely come down to cost, brand loyalty, and the specific formulation you prefer (tablet, liquid, etc.). If you are in a region where Histaclear is sold, it is a perfectly viable and often cheaper alternative to Zyrtec.

Consider the following steps:

Check the label: Always verify the active ingredient. For both Histaclear and Zyrtec, it should state "cetirizine hydrochloride".
Compare costs: If the active ingredient and dosage are identical, choose the more affordable option. Store-brand or generic cetirizine is often the most budget-friendly choice.
Evaluate for side effects: While both are considered non-sedating, some individuals may experience drowsiness. If you are particularly sensitive to drowsiness, you might consider talking to a pharmacist or doctor about trying a third-generation antihistamine like Xyzal (levocetirizine).
Consider formulation: Decide if you prefer a tablet, liquid, or chewable form, and find the product that matches your preference.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Ultimately, Histaclear and Zyrtec are the same drug, as they both rely on the active ingredient cetirizine hydrochloride to combat allergy symptoms. The key difference lies in branding, marketing, and the associated cost. By understanding the active ingredient and recognizing that generic versions are bioequivalent, consumers can make informed choices about their allergy medication, opting for the most cost-effective option without compromising on efficacy. When in doubt, consulting a pharmacist or healthcare provider is always the best course of action. Based on information from Healthify, cetirizine is known by several brand names, including Histaclear and Zyrtec.

Remember to read all product labels carefully and consider all aspects of the medication before making a purchase. This empowers you to manage your allergies effectively while being mindful of your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cetirizine hydrochloride is the active ingredient in Zyrtec. Therefore, any product containing cetirizine hydrochloride, including generic or store-brand versions, is functionally the same as brand-name Zyrtec.

Yes, because both medications contain the same active ingredient, they share the same potential side effects. These can include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, and fatigue, though the likelihood of experiencing them varies by individual.

Both Histaclear and Zyrtec are equally effective because they use the same active ingredient, cetirizine hydrochloride. The therapeutic effect is identical; any difference in perceived effectiveness is subjective.

No, it is not recommended to take Histaclear and Zyrtec at the same time. Since they are the same medication, taking both would result in a double dose, increasing the risk of side effects like excessive drowsiness.

Histaclear is a brand name common in certain markets, such as New Zealand. In the United States, cetirizine is widely available under the brand name Zyrtec and numerous other generic labels.

Zyrtec is often more expensive due to brand recognition, marketing costs, and consumer loyalty. Generic products like Histaclear, which contain the identical active ingredient, are typically sold at a lower price point.

The choice is primarily based on cost and brand preference. For the same therapeutic result, many people opt for the more budget-friendly generic option. You should always read the label to ensure the active ingredient is cetirizine hydrochloride.