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Compare Zyrtec vs. Astepro

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

Key takeaways

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and Astepro Allergy (azelastine) are both antihistamines used to relieve allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Cetirizine is available in various forms, including tablets and liquids, and is taken orally once a day. It is effective for symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes and is safe for use during pregnancy. Astepro Allergy, on the other hand, is a nasal spray used to treat nasal symptoms such as stuffy nose and sneezing. It can be used by adults and children 6 years and older and is typically sprayed into each nostril once or twice a day. While both medications can cause drowsiness, Astepro Allergy might also leave a bitter taste in your mouth. Additionally, Astepro Allergy works faster, often within 15 to 30 minutes, compared to cetirizine, which takes about 20 to 60 minutes to start working.

  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Astepro allergy (azelastine)
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Astepro allergy (azelastine)

  • Summary of Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is an antihistamine. It's used for relief of allergy symptoms, such as runny nose or watery eyes, in adults and children. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is also a safe option for people who are pregnant. This medication is available in different formulations, including tablets and liquid solutions. Typically, cetirizine (Zyrtec) is taken by mouth once per day. The most common side effect of cetirizine (Zyrtec) is sleepiness. But it's less likely to make you drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine nasal spray that's used to treat nasal symptoms due to allergies, such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is available over-the-counter (OTC) for adults and children 6 years and older. The strength of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is 0.15%. The dosage depends on your age, but it's usually sprayed into the nose once or twice a day. Side effects can include a bitter taste in the mouth, nasal discomfort, and sneezing. <br/> Note: Azelastine nasal spray is also available by prescription in 0.1% and 0.15% strengths.

  • Indications of Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat)
    •Relief of itchiness due to chronic (long-term) hives in children ages 6 months to under 6 years old - certain liquid solutions only
    Indications for

    Short-term relief of nasal symptoms due to allergies:

    •Stuffy nose
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
    •Taken once per day
    •Available in several formulations (e.g., pills, chewable tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, liquids)
    •Safe to take while pregnant
    Cons
    •Can cause you to feel sleepy
    •Higher risk of side effects in people with liver or kidney problems
    •Pills can't be used in children younger than 6 years.
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Available over the counter; doesn't require a prescription
    •Sprayed directly in the nose
    •Can work within 15 to 30 minutes to relieve allergy symptoms
    Cons
    •Not approved for children younger than 6 years old
    •Can cause drowsiness
    •Might leave a bitter taste in your mouth

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Common Side Effects for

    People 12 years of age and older:

    •Sleepiness (14%)
    •Tiredness (6%)
    •Dry mouth (5%)

    Children age 6 to under 12 years:

    •Headache (11-14%)
    •Sore throat (3-6%)
    •Stomach pain (4-6%)
    •Cough (3-4%)
    •Sleepiness (2-4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bitter taste (up to 6%)
    •Nasal discomfort (up to 4%)
    •Nosebleed (up to 2%)
    •Sneezing (up to 2%)

  • Warnings of Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    Common Side Effects for
    •Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentrating

  • Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec vs. Astepro

    Learn more about Cetirizine
    Learn more about Astepro allergy

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