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Zyrtec-D vs. Nasacort Allergy

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

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide) are both over-the-counter medications 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 seasonal allergies and congestion. However, it can cause trouble sleeping and may raise your blood pressure. Nasacort, on the other hand, is a nasal spray corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in your nose to relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It is used once daily and is less likely to make you sleepy, but it might take up to a week to see full benefits. Nasacort is generally safer for people with high blood pressure, unlike Zyrtec-D. Additionally, Nasacort can be used by children as young as 2 years old, while Zyrtec-D is typically for those 12 and older.

Zyrtec-D

(cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)

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Nasacort

(triamcinolone acetonide)

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Summary for Zyrtec-D

Over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Zyrtec-D

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

Pros and Cons for Zyrtec-D

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

Common Side Effects for Zyrtec-D

Warnings for Zyrtec-D

  • Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
  • Worsening of certain medical conditions
  • Accidentally taking too much medication

Summary for Nasacort Allergy

Over-the-counter

Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide) is a nasal spray for adults and children 2 years of age and older that helps relieve symptoms of hay fever and allergies, including sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It's used once daily and typically lasts for 24 hours. Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide) doesn't have many side effects, but you might have a temporary sore throat or cough after you use it. Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide) is available over the counter as a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Nasacort Allergy

  • Hay fever and allergy symptoms (nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose)

Pros and Cons for Nasacort Allergy

Pros

  • Available as a generic, over-the-counter product
  • Used once daily and can last up to 24 hours
  • Not likely to make you sleepy
  • Small, portable spray that's easy to carry and use anywhere

Cons

  • Might take up to 1 week for some symptoms to get better
  • Might not be a good option if you have an injured nose or recently had nasal surgery
  • Might slow down the growth rate in children if used for longer than 2 months per year
  • Not meant to be used to relieve common cold symptoms

Common Side Effects for Nasacort Allergy

Adults and children 12 years or older:

  • Sore throat (5%)
  • Nose bleed (3%)
  • Cough (2%)

Children ages 4 to 12 years:

  • Flu-like symptoms (9%)
  • Cough (8%)
  • Sore throat (8%)
  • Bronchitis (3%)
  • Indigestion (3%)
  • Tooth problems (3%)

Children ages 2 to 5 years:

  • Headache (6%)
  • Sore throat (6%)
  • Nose bleed (5%)
  • Common cold symptoms (5%)
  • Stomach pain (5%)
  • Diarrhea (3%)
  • Asthma (3%)
  • Rash (3%)
  • Skin picking problem (3%)
  • Runny nose (2%)

Warnings for Nasacort Allergy

  • Nasal problems
  • Eye problems
  • Higher risk of infections
  • Slowed growth rate in children

Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec-D vs. Nasacort Allergy

Price Card Drug Icon
Cetirizine/Pseudoephedrine24 tablets / 12 hour
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Price Card Drug Icon
Nasacort Allergy1 nasal spray / 120 sprays
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