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Compare Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

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

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and Flonase (fluticasone) are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work in different ways and have different forms. Zyrtec-D is a combination of an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) taken orally, which helps with inflammation and clears sinuses. It can cause trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime and may raise blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension. Flonase, on the other hand, is a nasal spray corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in your nose to relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It must be used daily for the best results and can be used for up to 6 months in adults (or 2 months in children) without a prescription. Flonase can cause nosebleeds and, in children, may slow growth if used for longer periods. Both are available over the counter and as generic versions. Zyrtec-D requires a photo ID to purchase due to pseudoephedrine regulations.

  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Fluticasone nasal spray
  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Fluticasone nasal spray

  • Summary of Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

    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 Corticosteroid

    Fluticasone nasal spray is used to treat allergy symptoms, like runny nose and sneezing. Fluticasone nasal spray comes in brand and generic forms, and is available by a prescription or over-the-counter (OTC). Fluticasone nasal spray must be used daily in order for you to experience the maximum benefits. But if you're using OTC versions of this medication, don't use it for more than 6 months at a time (or 2 months at a time, for children) without first speaking to your provider.

  • Indications of Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

    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

    Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

    •Congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    •Itchy, watery eyes

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

    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 Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Only has to be used once a day and can last up to 24 hours
    •Available OTC
    •Some formulations have generic versions
    •Can be used safely in children as young as 4 years old
    •Flonase Sensimist is a gentler version that can be used in children as young as 2 years old
    Cons
    •Not a good option if you have an injured nose or had recent nasal surgery
    •Can raise the risk of bleeding and fungal infections in the nose
    •Can slow down growth rate in children if used for longer than 2 months per year
    •Can raise the risk for certain eye problems

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble sleeping (4%)
    •Dry mouth(4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7-16%)
    •Sore throat (6-8%)
    •Nosebleeds (6-7%)
    •Asthma symptoms (3-7%)

  • Warnings of Zyrtec-D vs. Flonase

    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
    •Nasal problems
    •Slowed growth rate in children
    •Eye problems
    •Higher risk of infections
    •Stress hormone problems (adrenal gland problems)
    •Serious allergic reactions

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

    Learn more about Zyrtec-d
    Learn more about Fluticasone nasal spray

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