Zyrtec(cetirizine) and Zyrtec-D (cetirizine and pseudoephedrine) have similar names and uses.
Cetirizine is an over-the-counter (OTC)antihistamine.Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant.
Zyrtec-D is an OTC combination medication of the two.
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Decongestants help relieve nasal congestion by reducing swelling.
While pseudoephedrine is available OTC, there are restrictions for purchasing.
In some states, pseudoephedrine may be classified as a controlled substance.
The key difference between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D is the additional ingredient, pseudoephedrine, found in Zyrtec-D.
Both Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D provide relief from allergy symptoms.
They both contain cetirizine, an antihistamine.
However, Zyrtec-D also contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, to minimize nasal congestion.
Decongestants are a class of medication that helps relieve symptoms associated withcolds, allergies, andsinus infections.
They are not recommended for long-term use.
One of the major distinctions between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D is accessibility.
Pseudoephedrine is commonly used to makemethamphetamine(meth).
Meth is a highly addictive, illegal drug that is often abused and can lead to severe side effects.
What Does the D in Zyrtec-D Stand For?
The “D” in Zyrtec-D stands for “decongestant.”
As the name implies, this medication contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that relieves nasal symptoms.
What Are Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D Used For?
Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are used to relieve these symptoms in people with seasonal and perennial (year-round)allergies.
Zyrtec-D treats the same allergy symptoms as Zyrtec.
Zyrtec-D provides the benefit of treating nasal congestion and sinus pressure in addition to allergy symptoms.
How Do They Work?
Zyrtec works to relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine receptors.
Histamine is released by the body and results in allergy symptoms.
Blocking these receptors helps minimize allergy symptoms.
Which Is More Effective?
Determining whether Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D is more effective depends on which specific symptoms need to be treated.
Both medications contain cetirizine and are effective at lessening allergy symptoms and reducing symptom severity.
Zyrtec may be less effective than Zyrtec-D at relieving nasal congestion.
If side effects occur, they are usually mild.
Contact your healthcare provider if side effects occur and worsen or fail to improve.
Seek medical attention if symptoms have not improved after taking Zyrtec-D for seven days.
Consult with your healthcare provider before taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D if you have liver or kidney disease.
Avoid taking other medications that make you drowsy or using alcohol while taking either medication.
Neither Zyrtec nor Zyrtec-D are recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding people.
MAOIs can cause dangerously high blood pressure when taken with Zyrtec-D due to the pseudoephedrine component.
Summary
Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are OTC medications commonly used to treat allergy symptoms.
They both contain the antihistamine cetirizine.
Additionally, the “D” in Zyrtec-D stands for decongestant.
Zyrtec-D contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine, making it effective in treating nasal congestion.
DailyMed.Label: Zyrtec - cetirizine hydrochloride tablet, film coated.
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