During this period where pollen levels soar, many individuals experience hayfever symptoms. Before seeking treatment, it’s crucial to research and identify the most cost-effective options. Hayfever sufferers may end up paying exorbitant prices for the same medications depending on their choice of retailer, despite opting for generic or own-brand versions.
Own-label tablets sold in major supermarkets and pharmacies boast identical formulas. By examining the product license (PL) number, which is unique to specific medications, consumers can verify this. The packaging may vary, and the colors or markings may differ slightly. However, if the PL numbers align, the drug remains the same and will deliver the same results.
We analyzed the prices of Loratadine (PL number 16028/0080) and Cetirizine hydrochloride (PL number 16028/0067), two crucial hayfever medications available as own-brand versions in various supermarket chains. Loratadine 10mg tablets are priced at 6p each in Aldi (packs of 14 for 79p) and 20p each in Boots (30-packs for £5.99). Expresschemist.co.uk offers them for 5p each (60-packs under the name “Numark one-a-day allergy tablets”).
Cetirizine hydrochloride, an antihistamine, is sold under various guises with the product code 16028/0067. Packs of 14 cost £1.50 (10.7p each) at Spar shops but £5.99 (20p each) for Boots’ 30-packs of hayfever and allergy relief tabs.
Experts advise paying attention to the packaging to determine the tablet’s contents and product license number. While this information may not be readily available online, it should be displayed on the packaging in stores.
Dr. José Costa, a senior paediatric allergy consultant at thechildrensallergy.co.uk service, emphasized that if the PL codes match, the dose and ingredients are identical, resulting in the same allergy relief effect. He advises consumers to check the codes for the best prices.
Oli Townsend, assistant deals editor at MoneySavingExpert, highlights that this price disparity exists for numerous medications with identical ingredients. He urges consumers to be vigilant and check the PL number to avoid overpaying for unnecessary packaging.
Branded versions of these drugs are typically more expensive, but not always. Sainsbury’s sells Clarityn (containing Loratadine) for £11.10 for 30 tablets (37p each). Boots’ Piriteze tabs contain 10mg of Cetirizine hydrochloride and cost 38p each.
A Boots spokesperson acknowledged that they offer various hay fever medicines, including own-brand products, at different price points. Their pharmacy team is available to assist customers in finding the most suitable solutions. Boots regularly runs promotions on hayfever products, and Advantage Card members receive a 10% discount on Boots own-brand products.
Boots’ most affordable hay fever medicine is a generic product from Bell’s Healthcare, priced at £2.75 for 30 tablets (9p per tablet). Do you have a money problem that needs resolving? Contact us at money-sm@news.co.uk and join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your experiences and advice.
