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Zyrtec vs. Dimetapp

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

Key takeaways

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and brompheniramine/phenylephrine (Dimetapp Cold and Allergy) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve allergy symptoms, but they belong to different medication classes. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine to relieve symptoms like runny nose and itchy eyes. Brompheniramine/phenylephrine is a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant, which not only blocks histamine but also narrows blood vessels to relieve nasal congestion. Cetirizine is typically taken once a day and is available in various forms, including tablets and liquids, while brompheniramine/phenylephrine is taken every 4 hours and comes in liquid and tablet forms. Common side effects of cetirizine include sleepiness and dry mouth, while brompheniramine/phenylephrine can cause dizziness, sleepiness, and dry mouth. Additionally, brompheniramine/phenylephrine may not be best for those with certain health conditions like high blood pressure or heart problems.

Cetirizine

(Zyrtec)

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Brompheniramine/phenylephrine

 

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Summary for Zyrtec

Prescription or over-the-counter

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).

Indications for Zyrtec

  • 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

Pros and Cons for Zyrtec

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.

Common Side Effects for Zyrtec

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%)

Warnings for Zyrtec

  • Sleepiness
  • Accidentally taking too much medication

Summary for Dimetapp

Over-the-counter

Brompheniramine/phenylephrine is a combination medication that helps to temporarily relieve symptoms of cold and allergies, such as watery eyes, stuffy nose, and itchy throat. It's taken by mouth and available in both a liquid and a tablet form, and as lower-cost generic medications.

Indications for Dimetapp

Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itching of the nose or throat
  • Itchy or watery eyes

Pros and Cons for Dimetapp

Pros

  • Combines two medications into one product for convenience
  • Can treat multiple allergy and common cold symptoms
  • Available over the counter without a prescription

Cons

  • Might need to take multiple times a day to relieve symptoms
  • More difficult to customize the dose since it's a fixed combination
  • Might not be a good choice for people over 65 years old or people with glaucoma, breathing problems, stomach problems, or urinary problems

Common Side Effects for Dimetapp

  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth

Warnings for Dimetapp

  • Worsening of medical conditions
  • Accidental overdose

Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec vs. Dimetapp

Price Card Drug Icon
Cetirizine90 tablets / 24 hour of 10mg
$9.11$14.04
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Price Card Drug Icon
Brompheniramine/Phenylephrine1 bottle / 118ml of 2mg/5mg/10ml
$10.67-
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