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Compare Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

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

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and phenylephrine eye drops are used for different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Zyrtec-D is a combination of an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) that helps relieve seasonal allergies and nasal congestion. It's taken orally and is available over the counter. Zyrtec-D may cause trouble sleeping and a temporary rise in blood pressure. On the other hand, phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate pupils for eye exams or procedures. This medication is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist and is available only by prescription. It can cause temporary eye discomfort, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light, and it may also raise blood pressure, especially in higher concentrations.

  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Phenylephrine eye drops
  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Phenylephrine eye drops

  • Summary of Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

    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 Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

  • Indications of Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

    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
    •Dilate (widen) pupils

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

    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 Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Can be used in adults and children
    •Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Can cause eye pain and stinging
    •Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
    •The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble sleeping (4%)
    •Dry mouth(4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
    •Temporary blurry vision
    •Sensitivity to light

  • Warnings of Zyrtec-D vs. Phenylephrine

    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
    •For use in the eyes only
    •Heart problems
    •High blood pressure
    •Rebound pupil constriction

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

    Learn more about Zyrtec-d
    Learn more about Phenylephrine eye drops

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