{"id":6696,"date":"2025-02-03T10:32:27","date_gmt":"2025-02-03T10:32:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/hmn-side-effects-dosage-and-effectiveness-in-2025\/"},"modified":"2025-02-03T10:48:04","modified_gmt":"2025-02-03T10:48:04","slug":"hmn-side-effects-dosage-and-effectiveness-in-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/hmn-side-effects-dosage-and-effectiveness-in-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"HMN: Allegra and Zyrtec Side effects, dosage, and effectiveness in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>\n<br \/>Do you know:  Side effects, dosage, and effectiveness in 2025<\/p>\n<div id=\"main-content\">\n<div id=\"post-intro\">\n<div id=\"takeaways\">\n<h2>Key takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Allegra and Zyrtec are OTC antihistamines that treat allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Zyrtec works faster and may last longer, but Allegra causes less drowsiness in most users.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Both medications are available in tablet and liquid forms, with Zyrtec also available as a chewable tablet.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Generic options for both medications are affordable and widely available without a prescription.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"table-of-contents\">\n<div class=\"anchorLinks\">\n<div class=\"mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"dropdownLists\">\n<div class=\"dropdownBtn\"><span class=\"listsIcon\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/singlecare\/images\/union.svg\" width=\"14\" height=\"20\"\/><\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label><\/label><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"downArrow\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/singlecare\/images\/dropDownArrow.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\"\/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are one of the 50 million Americans who live with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">allergies<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> each year, you may have taken a walk down the allergy aisle at your local pharmacy. There are so many options that knowing which medication to choose can be difficult. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (fexofenadine) and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (cetirizine) are two medications that can help treat symptoms of allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery, itchy eyes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These brand-name allergy medicines are available in generic forms and can be purchased over the counter (OTC). They are classified in a class of medications called <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antihistamines<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which work by blocking the effects of histamine. Histamine is a chemical the immune system makes in response to allergens like pollen and dust mites. Despite their similarities, Allegra and Zyrtec may have differences in effectiveness, cost, and other factors.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-main-differences-between-allegra-and-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the main differences between Allegra and Zyrtec?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra and Zyrtec are oral antihistamines that contain different active ingredients. Allegra contains fexofenadine, while Zyrtec contains cetirizine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As second-generation antihistamines, both medications are considered non-sedating. However, Allegra is believed to cause <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/03007995.2024.2378172\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">less drowsiness<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than Zyrtec. On the other hand, Zyrtec may work faster than Allegra, reaching maximum levels in the blood within an hour versus one to three hours with Allegra. In addition, the effects of Zyrtec may last longer than those of Allegra.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both medications can be used in adults and children. The typical adult dosage of Allegra is 180 mg daily as needed or 60 mg twice daily as needed. The typical adult dosage of Zyrtec is 5 to 10 mg daily as needed. Allegra and Zyrtec come in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, and oral liquids. However, Zyrtec is also available as a chewable tablet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><span class=\"title\">Main differences between Allegra and Zyrtec<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug class<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamine<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand\/generic status<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand and generic<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand and generic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the generic name?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fexofenadine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cetirizine<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tablet<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Orally disintegrating tablet<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gelcap<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oral suspension<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tablet<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Orally disintegrating tablet<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chewable tablet<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gelcap<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oral syrup<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the standard dosage?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults: 180 mg daily as needed or 60 mg twice daily as needed<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children: varies by age<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults: 5 to 10 mg daily as needed<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children: varies by age<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long is the typical treatment?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Short-term or long-term as needed<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Short-term or long-term as needed<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who typically uses the medication?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults and children<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults and children<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"conditions-treated-by-allegra-and-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conditions treated by Allegra and Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra and Zyrtec can both be used to treat perennial and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">seasonal allergic rhinitis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Perennial allergies can occur at any time of year and are related to dust and mold. Symptoms might include nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Both drugs are also indicated for the treatment of hives (urticaria) in children 6 months and older.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both drugs can often be used on an as-needed basis for symptoms of allergies. However, they don\u2019t treat the root cause of allergies. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding allergens, keeping a clean living environment, and using air purifiers may help manage allergy triggers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"is-allegra-or-zyrtec-more-effective\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Allegra or Zyrtec more effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both antihistamines are effective treatments for allergy symptoms compared to using nothing at all. However, studies suggest that Zyrtec may be more effective than Allegra.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One study compared the effectiveness of fexofenadine and cetirizine in relieving seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms. The results showed that cetirizine provided a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/16270720\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">26% greater reduction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in total symptom severity than fexofenadine 12 hours after taking the medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another study compared the effectiveness of these drugs in treating chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). It found that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/14754652\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">around 52%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of patients taking cetirizine were symptom-free at the end of the treatment period, while only around 4% of those on fexofenadine achieved the same outcome.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Still, other studies suggest that Allegra and Zyrtec are similarly effective. One double-blind <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/14582814\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> looked at 495 patients with seasonal allergies and compared Allegra 180 mg daily to Zyrtec 10 mg daily for two weeks. Both drugs were found to be equally effective in treating allergy symptoms, and Allegra was found to cause less drowsiness than Zyrtec.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people prefer one over the other, so it may take some trial and error to determine which drug is more effective for you. Consult a doctor or healthcare provider to help you choose the best option for your symptoms.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"coverage-and-cost-comparison-of-allegra-vs-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coverage and cost comparison of Allegra vs. Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra and Zyrtec aren\u2019t typically covered by insurance because they\u2019re widely available over-the-counter medications. However, some government plans, such as Medicaid, may pay for Allegra or Zyrtec with a doctor\u2019s prescription.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A typical bottle of Allegra or Zyrtec could cost around $30 over the counter. However, you could get a better price by opting for generic versions of these medications. Retail prices generally depend on the pharmacy, the strength, and the quantity you purchase.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a  discount card, you could save on the cash price of these medications. However, your healthcare provider will have to write a prescription for you to be able to take advantage of these savings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically covered by insurance?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quantity<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30 tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30 tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical Medicare copay<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> cost<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$4<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$12<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"common-side-effects-of-allegra-vs-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of Allegra vs. Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra and Zyrtec are well tolerated by most people. However, they may still come with side effects. In most cases, these side effects are mild and only last as long as you\u2019re on the medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common side effects of Allegra include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upset stomach<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper respiratory tract infections<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects of Zyrtec<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other side effects may occur. Consult your allergist or other healthcare professional for a full list of potential side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"drug-interactions-of-allegra-vs-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug interactions of Allegra vs. Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Allegra and Zyrtec are effective for the quick relief of allergy symptoms, they may interact with other drugs. Certain medications and substances may alter the effectiveness of Allegra, while other medications may increase the side effects of Zyrtec.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"antacids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antacids<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra should not be taken close to antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, like Maalox. These drugs can reduce the amount of Allegra your body absorbs, making it less effective. Zyrtec does not have this interaction.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"alcohol-and-sedatives\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alcohol and sedatives<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Combining Zyrtec with alcohol or sedative drugs, such as painkillers, antidepressants, and sleep aids, can increase drowsiness from Zyrtec. Although Allegra is less likely to cause drowsiness than Zyrtec, it\u2019s still recommended to use caution when taking Allegra with other substances that can cause sleepiness.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"other-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other medications<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/drugsatfda_docs\/label\/2019\/021963s007lbl.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">interact with antibiotics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like Erythrocin (erythromycin) and antifungals like Nizoral (ketoconazole), which can increase the levels of Allegra in the body. However, this increase is not known to cause harmful side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"fruit-juices\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fruit juices<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking grapefruit, apple, or orange juice with Allegra may reduce the medication\u2019s effectiveness by lowering the amount your body absorbs. To maximize its effectiveness, Allegra should be taken with water. Zyrtec does not interact with fruit juices.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult your healthcare provider for a full list of drug interactions, especially if you take other prescription medications, OTC medicines, or herbal supplements.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"warnings-of-allegra-and-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Warnings of Allegra and Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both Allegra and Zyrtec can cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or using machinery until you know how they affect you. Allegra is generally safe but should be used with caution if you have kidney disease. A healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose to avoid side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec may cause drowsiness more often than Allegra, so extra care is needed with activities that require full attention. While rare, Zyrtec can sometimes cause weight gain in breastfeeding infants if used by nursing mothers. If you have severe kidney problems, Zyrtec should also be avoided or used with caution due to an increased risk of side effects. Dosages may need to be changed if you have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/drugsatfda_docs\/label\/2002\/19835s15,%2020346s8lbl.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">liver problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, as the medication can stay in the body longer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult a healthcare provider about other potential warnings and precautions before taking Allegra or Zyrtec.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-allegra-vs-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently asked questions about Allegra vs. Zyrtec<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"what-is-allegra\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is Allegra?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra is an OTC allergy medication that helps treat symptoms of hay fever and other allergic reactions, such as itching and skin rashes. It contains the active ingredient fexofenadine and is available in different forms, including tablets and gelcaps.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"what-is-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is Zyrtec?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec is another OTC antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms like an itchy nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. Its active ingredient is cetirizine. Zyrtec is available in various forms, such as chewable tablets and syrups, providing effective relief for both young children and adults.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"are-allegra-and-zyrtec-the-same\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are Allegra and Zyrtec the same?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While both Allegra and Zyrtec are antihistamines, they contain different active ingredients. These medications have similar uses but have different side effects and may work differently for some. It\u2019s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best choice for your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"is-allegra-or-zyrtec-better\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Allegra or Zyrtec better?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The effectiveness of Allegra versus Zyrtec can vary depending on the person. Both medications can offer long-term allergy relief and are considered among the safest antihistamines available. However, studies suggest Zyrtec works faster than Allegra. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the best OTC antihistamine medication for your symptoms.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-allegra-or-zyrtec-while-pregnant\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use Allegra or Zyrtec while pregnant?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acog.org\/womens-health\/experts-and-stories\/ask-acog\/what-medicine-can-i-take-for-allergies-while-im-pregnant\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antihistamines during pregnancy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should only be done with guidance from a healthcare provider. Both medications are generally considered safe for pregnant women, but individual health conditions and the severity of symptoms are important considerations. Always seek medical advice before starting any new medication during pregnancy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-allegra-or-zyrtec-with-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use Allegra or Zyrtec with alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Allegra or Zyrtec. Mixing these medications with alcohol can increase the risk of experiencing severe side effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness. For safer use, consult a healthcare provider about the best way to manage your allergy symptoms without alcohol.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-take-zyrtec-and-allegra-together\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I take Zyrtec and Allegra together?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Combining <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec and Allegra<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is not a good idea. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it is best to pick one appropriate allergy medication and take it as directed. Combining these medications does not typically offer additional benefits and may increase the risk of adverse effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"which-antihistamine-is-best\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which antihistamine is best?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That depends. Some people swear by <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while others love <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Other non-sedating antihistamines such as Claritin and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xyzal<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are also popular. It may take a bit of trial and error to find which antihistamine helps your symptoms the most while giving you the least side effects. Although these newer antihistamines may still cause drowsiness, they cause less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines like <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benadryl<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (diphenhydramine), which more easily cross the blood-brain barrier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"does-zyrtec-raise-blood-pressure\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Does Zyrtec raise blood pressure?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec alone does not increase blood pressure. However, Zyrtec-D <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">contains pseudoephedrine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can increase blood pressure. Ask a pharmacist if you need help selecting an antihistamine medication that does not contain a decongestant.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"is-it-better-to-take-zyrtec-at-night-or-in-the-morning\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is it better to take Zyrtec at night or in the morning?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on your symptoms and lifestyle, Zyrtec can be taken in the morning or at night. Some prefer taking it at night to avoid any drowsiness during the day. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the best time to take this medication.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"what-are-the-long-term-effects-of-taking-zyrtec\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the long-term effects of taking Zyrtec?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use of Zyrtec is generally considered safe for most people, as the medication can be used for perennial allergies. However, some people may experience side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. 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Zyrtec works faster and may last longer, but Allegra causes less drowsiness in most users. Both medications are available in tablet and liquid forms, with Zyrtec also available [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6696","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-health-news"],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6696","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6696"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6696\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6746,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6696\/revisions\/6746"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6696"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6696"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6696"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}