Compare Zyrtec vs. Astepro
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats allergy symptoms.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) can help you with some allergy symptoms without making you very drowsy.
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3.8/ 5 average rating with 1232 reviewsforZyrtec
Relieves nasal allergy symptoms.
Astepro (azelastine) is an antihistamine nasal spray that can help with allergy or nasal symptoms.
Upsides
- Zyrtec (cetirizine) works to treat sneezing and runny nose, and causes less sedation compared to Benadryl.
- Works well to also treat hives and itchy skin.
- Zyrtec (cetirizine) is available over the counter without a prescription. It comes as a tablet, liquid, and quick-dissolving tablet.
- It can provide relief of allergy symptoms for both kids and adults.
- Zyrtec (cetirizine) has few drug interactions with other medicines.
- Most people don't get any side effects from Zyrtec (cetirizine).
- Astepro (azelastine) is good for relieving nasal symptoms during allergy season.
- Since Astepro (azelastine) goes in the nose, it's unlikely you'll get side effects anywhere else in your body.
- Astepro (azelastine) works faster than steroid nasal sprays and can be used as needed.
- People usually tolerate Astepro (azelastine) well since there are few side effects.
Downsides
- Although it works fast, Zyrtec (cetirizine)'s effectiveness wears off for some people over time.
- Zyrtec (cetirizine) can make you a little more sleepy compared to Allegra or Claritin.
- Some people find that other more sedating antihistamines, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), are more effective for them than Zyrtec (cetirizine).
- Astepro (azelastine) has 200 sprays, but no counter to help keep track of sprays.
- It can cause a bitter taste in your mouth.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Chewable tablet
- Dissolving tablet
- Liquid
- Nasal spray
Price
Lowest price
$2.88
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$13.95
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Reviews
1232 reviews so far
76%
saidit'sworth it
47%
saiditworked well
7%
saidit'sa big hassle
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Side effects
The Zyrtec (cetirizine) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
5possible side effects
- Bitter Taste8%
- Nose discomfort4%
- Nosebleeds2%
- Headache2%
- Fatigue2%
Risks and risk factors
- Increased side effects in the elderly
- Age 65 or older
- Impaired alertness
- Taking with alcohol
- Taking other medicines that make you less alert
- History of liver or kidney conditions
- History of liver or kidney disease
- Difficulty concentrating
- Taking with alcohol
- Taking other medicines that make you less alert