Diphenhydramine vs Loratadine

## Diphenhydramine vs Loratadine: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between **Diphenhydramine** and **Loratadine**.

## Mechanism of Action

**Diphenhydramine**: First-generation H1 antihistamine with anticholinergic properties.

**Loratadine**: Second-generation H1 antihistamine with minimal CNS effects.

## Pharmacokinetics

**Half-life**: Diphenhydramine — 2-8 hours; Loratadine — 8 hours.

## Chemical Properties

**Molecular Formula**: Diphenhydramine — C17H21NO; Loratadine — C22H23ClN2O2.

**Molecular Weight**: Diphenhydramine — 255.3550 g/mol; Loratadine — 382.8800 g/mol.

**Type**: Diphenhydramine — Small molecule; Loratadine — Small molecule.