Key takeaways
Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and Claritin-D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve allergy symptoms and congestion. Zyrtec-D combines cetirizine, an antihistamine, with pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, and is taken once or twice a day. Claritin-D combines loratadine, another antihistamine, with pseudoephedrine and is available in both 12-hour and 24-hour formulations. One key difference is that Zyrtec-D can cause more daytime drowsiness compared to Claritin-D, which is less likely to make you sleepy. However, both medications can cause trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime. Zyrtec-D is controlled in some states due to its pseudoephedrine content, while Claritin-D is not a controlled medication. Both medications require you to show ID to purchase at the pharmacy counter. And both medications should be used with caution if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.
