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Compare Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

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

Key takeaways

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work in different ways and come in different forms. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that you take by mouth, either as a tablet or liquid, and it helps by blocking histamine to relieve symptoms like a runny nose and itchy eyes. On the other hand, budesonide is a corticosteroid nasal spray that reduces inflammation in your nose to treat symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Cetirizine is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, and it can be taken by people of most ages, including children as young as 6 months. Budesonide is also available over-the-counter and by prescription, but it is only approved for use in children 6 years and older. While cetirizine can cause drowsiness, budesonide can lead to nosebleeds and, with long-term use, may cause more serious side effects like delayed growth in children and eye problems. Both medications are effective, but they have different side effects and usage instructions, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)

  • Summary of Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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 Corticosteroid

    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) is an over-the-counter (OTC) nasal spray for adults and children age 6 years and older. It's a corticosteroid that relieves nasal allergy symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose, and sneezing. Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) is sprayed into each nostril once per day. Side effects can include nose bleeds and irritation in the nose. This medication is available as a generic.

  • Indications of Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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
    •Nasal allergy symptoms (e.g., runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy nose, sneezing)

  • Pros and Cons of Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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 Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for treating nasal allergy symptoms
    •Only used once per day
    •Available over the counter
    •Can be used for children as young as 6 years old
    Cons
    •Might cause nose bleeds
    •Might take up to 2 weeks to feel the full benefits from the medication
    •Not meant for relieving nasal symptoms related to the common cold

  • Common Side Effects of Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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
    •Bloody nose (8%)
    •Sore throat (4%)

  • Warnings of Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nose bleeds, discomfort, and injury
    •Risk of infection
    •Altered stress hormone levels
    •Delayed growth in children
    •Allergic reactions
    •Eye and vision problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Zyrtec vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    Learn more about Cetirizine
    Learn more about Budesonide

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