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Compare Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

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

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are both over-the-counter medications used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Zyrtec-D combines an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine), making it effective for both allergies and nasal congestion. However, it can cause trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime and may raise your blood pressure. Diphenhydramine, on the other hand, is solely an antihistamine and is known for causing significant drowsiness, which makes it useful as a sleep aid. Unlike Zyrtec-D, diphenhydramine is not recommended for long-term use due to potential memory and confusion issues, especially in older adults. Additionally, diphenhydramine can cause hyperactivity in some children and should not be used for sleep in children under 12. Both medications are available in generic forms and come in various dosage forms, but Zyrtec-D requires a photo ID for purchase due to pseudoephedrine regulations.

  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

  • Summary of Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    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

    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an over-the-counter (OTC) oral medication that's commonly used to treat allergies, common cold symptoms, and itching. Because it makes most people very sleepy, it can also be used as an occasional sleep aid.

  • Indications of Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    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
    •Allergies
    •Common cold symptoms
    •Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    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
    Pros
    •Can help relieve allergy and cold symptoms within about 30 minutes
    •Can be used in children as young as 6 years old with allergy and cold symptoms
    •Can help with occasional sleep problems (12 years and older)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Available OTC in several different dosage forms
    Cons
    •Not the best option for long-term use
    •Can cause drowsiness the next day when used for sleep
    •Can cause hyperactivity in some children
    •Might not be safe for people with breathing problems, glaucoma, or problems with urinating
    •Can impair your ability to drive or do tasks that require alertness

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble sleeping (4%)
    •Dry mouth(4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Dry mouth, nose, and throat
    •Headache
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision

  • Warnings of Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    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
    •Accidental overdose
    •Excessive sleepiness
    •Worsening of certain health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec-D vs. Benadryl

    Learn more about Zyrtec-d
    Learn more about Diphenhydramine

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