No, Acrivastine and Diphenhydramine are different medicines. However, they belong to the same group of medicines called antihistamines (medicine to relieve allergy). Both medicines have similar actions, though their uses and effects may vary. Diphenhydramine belongs to the first generation of antihistamines which have sedative (sleep-inducing) effects, whereas Acrivastine belongs to a newer generation of antihistamines which have non-sedative effects.

Yes, Acrivastine is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Acrivastine too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.

No, Acrivastine is not known to cause anxiety. However, if you have any symptoms of anxiety such as irritability, restlessness, lack of concentration, racing thoughts or unwanted thoughts, fatigue or sweating, excessive worry, fear, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), nausea and palpitations, it may be due to some other reason that needs to be taken care of. Please consult your doctor for better understanding of your condition otherwise your condition may worsen.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, however, Acrivastine belongs to a newer generation which is non-sedative and has a low potential to act on the central nervous system; Acrivastine lacks significant anticholinergic activity.

Acrivastine and Cetirizine belong to the same category of medicines called antihistamines. Both are safe and equally effective in treatmenting allergic symptoms.

There are no reports which suggest any drug interaction (negative effect) between Acrivastine and cetirizine/ loratadine if both are used together. However, this does not confirm that it is safe to take these drugs together. Always consult a doctor before taking any other medicine while using Acrivastine.

The effect of Acrivastine may last for around 2 hours in your system after a single dose. While, it may last approximately 5 hours after multiple recommended doses.