City Allergy

Category: Patient Education > Medications  

Update on over the counter antihistamines

IS YOUR INSURER DENYING YOUR PRESCRIPTION ANTIHISTAMINES?

Dear Patient:

As you may know many antihistamines, are available now over-the-counter in the United States. These drugs are effective once a day antihistamines that were prescription drugs for many years (Claritin (loratidine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine).

In an effort to save on pharmacy expenses, many managed care insurance companies decline to cover the cost of prescription nonsedating antihistamines such as Allegra, Clarinex, and Xyzal. Many of these companies are requiring that anyone who requests prescription coverage for these three drugs must first try over-the-counter medications.  A 4 month supply of Cetirizine(generic Zyrtec) or Loratadine (generic Claritin) may now be purchased at pharmacies for pennies a day.