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Compare Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief (ibuprofen/phenylephrine/chlorpheniramine) are both over-the-counter medications used to treat allergy symptoms and congestion, but they have some key differences. Zyrtec-D combines an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) to relieve allergies and clear sinuses, while Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief includes an antihistamine (chlorpheniramine), a decongestant (phenylephrine), and an NSAID (ibuprofen) to also address pain and inflammation. Zyrtec-D is typically taken every 12 hours, whereas Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief needs to be taken every 4 hours. Zyrtec-D can cause trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime, while Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief can cause stomach bleeding and should be taken with food or milk. Additionally, Zyrtec-D is controlled in some states due to its pseudoephedrine content, requiring a photo ID for purchase, whereas Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is not a controlled medication. Both medications should be used with caution if you have certain health conditions. Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief may need to be avoided in people with heart or stomach issues.

  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Advil allergy and congestion relief
  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Advil allergy and congestion relief

  • Summary of Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Summary for Antihistamine / Decongestant

    Zyrtec-D is a combination medication containing cetirizine (an antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine (a decongestant). It's taken by people ages 12 years and older to relieve allergy symptoms, like runny nose and nasal congestion. This medication comes as an extended-release tablet that's taken by mouth every 12 hours. Zyrtec-D is available as a brand-name and generic medication. Side effects can include trouble sleeping and dry mouth.

    Summary for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant

    Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications, chlorpheniramine (antihistamine), ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)), and phenylephrine (decongestant). It's available over the counter (OTC) and used to treat symptoms from allergies and the common cold.

  • Indications of Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Indications for

    Short-term relief of allergy symptoms in adults and children ages 12 years and older:

    •Itchy nose or throat
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy or watery eyes
    •Runny or stuffy nose
    •Sinus congestion or pressure
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold: runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, minor aches and pains, fever
    •Lowers swelling in the sinuses around the nose
    •Restores breathing through the nose

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Starts working within an hour
    •Easier to take a combination pill instead of two separate pills to treat congestion and other allergy symptoms
    •Available over the counter (behind the counter)
    Cons
    •Might need to take twice daily
    •Tablets can't be crushed or chewed and there isn't a liquid version available
    •Not the safest choice if you have certain conditions, like heart problems and trouble urinating
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Can treat a wide variety of allergy and common cold symptoms
    •More convenient to take three medications in one pill
    •Available over the counter
    Cons
    •Needs to be taken every 4 hours
    •More difficult to customize the dose since Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications
    •Can cause stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
    •Can't be used in children younger than 12 years old, right before or after heart surgery, or with current or recent (within the last 14 days) use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble sleeping (4%)
    •Dry mouth(4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Constipation
    •Upset stomach
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
    •Worsening of certain medical conditions
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose
    •Potential harm to unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec-D vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Learn more about Zyrtec-d
    Learn more about Advil allergy and congestion relief

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