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Compare Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

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

Key takeaways

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) and Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) are both used to relieve nasal and sinus congestion, but they have some key differences. Zyrtec-D is a combination of an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine), making it effective for treating both allergy symptoms and congestion. In contrast, Sudafed contains only pseudoephedrine, which is solely a decongestant. Zyrtec-D is typically taken every 12 hours, while Sudafed comes in various formulations that can be taken every 4 to 6 hours or in extended-release forms every 12 or 24 hours. Both medications can cause trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime and can raise blood pressure, but Zyrtec-D is more likely to cause daytime drowsiness due to the antihistamine component. Additionally, Zyrtec-D and Sudafed must both be bought at the pharmacy counter and require a photo ID to be purchased. In some states, Zyrtec-D is also considered a controlled substance.

  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
  • Zyrtec-d (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)
    Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)

  • Summary of Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

    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 agonist

    Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a non-drowsy decongestant taken by mouth to treat nasal and sinus congestion from allergies and the common cold. It's available in a short-acting version that's taken once every 4 to 6 hours. It also comes in longer-acting versions that are taken every 12 or 24 hours, depending on the dose. Side effects of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) include anxiety and headache. This medication might also keep you awake at night if you take it too close to bedtime. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is an OTC medication, but it's restricted, so you can only purchase it at the pharmacy counter.

  • Indications of Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

    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
    •Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

    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 agonist
    Pros
    •Works well to treat congestion
    •Available in longer-acting versions that last 12 hours or 24 hours
    •Children's oral liquids can be taken by kids as young as 4 years old
    •Available as lower-cost generics
    Cons
    •Several products have different age cut-offs for use in children, so can be confusing
    •Might make it hard for some people to sleep
    •Can raise blood pressure and heart rate
    •Not recommended during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble sleeping (4%)
    •Dry mouth(4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sweating
    •Nervousness
    •Excitability
    •Difficulty sleeping
    •Low appetite
    •Difficulty urinating

  • Warnings of Zyrtec-D vs. Sudafed

    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
    •Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose

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

    Learn more about Zyrtec-d
    Learn more about Sudafed

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