| Flonase | Zyrtec | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | fluticasone propionate | cetirizine |
| Active ingredient | Fluticasone propionate 50 mcg per spray | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg |
| Type | Steroid nasal spray | Oral antihistamine (pill) |
| Label uses | nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, itchy, watery eyes | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat |
| Nasal congestion on label | Yes | No |
| Drowsiness | No drowsiness warning | May cause drowsiness |
| How often | Once a day | Once a day |
| Youngest age on label | 4 years | 6 years |
| Maximum | 2 sprays in each nostril once a day | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours |
The main differences
They are different kinds of medicine. Zyrtec is an oral antihistamine (pill) you swallow; Flonase is a steroid nasal spray you spray into the nose. Flonase's label lists nasal congestion among its uses; Zyrtec's does not.
On drowsiness: Flonase: The label has no drowsiness warning. Zyrtec: The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving.
For children, Flonase is labeled from age 4, while Zyrtec is labeled from age 6.
Which might suit you
- a stuffy nose is your main problem
- you need to stay alert during the day
- it is for a child aged 4 or older
- you want a single daily pill
This is based only on what the two labels say. Neither label claims to work better than the other. A pharmacist can help if you have other conditions or take other medicines.
Dose by age
Flonase
- Adults and children 12 and over: Week 1: 2 sprays in each nostril once daily. Week 2 through 6 months: 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril once daily, as needed. Ask a doctor about use beyond 6 months of daily use.
- Children 4 to 11: 1 spray in each nostril once daily, with adult supervision, for the shortest time needed. Ask the child's doctor if needed more than two months a year.
- Children under 4: Do not use.
Zyrtec
- Adults and children 6 years and over: One 10 mg tablet once daily. Do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. The label notes a 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.
- Adults 65 and over: Ask a doctor.
- Children under 6: Ask a doctor.
- Liver or kidney disease: Ask a doctor.
Key warnings
Flonase
- Do not use to treat asthma, in children under 4, or with a nasal injury or surgery that has not fully healed.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have or had glaucoma or cataracts.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you take ritonavir or other HIV medicines, another steroid medicine, or ketoconazole pills.
- The growth rate of some children may be slower while using it.
Zyrtec
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients, or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have liver or kidney disease.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take tranquilizers or sedatives.
- If breast-feeding: not recommended. If pregnant: ask a health professional before use.
Compare prices for Flonase Compare prices for Zyrtec
Frequently asked questions
Is Flonase or Zyrtec better?
Neither label claims to work better than the other. Which suits you depends on your symptoms, age, and whether drowsiness matters, as compared above. A pharmacist can help you choose.
Can you take Flonase and Zyrtec together?
The labels don't cover taking these two together. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining allergy medicines.
Sources: Flonase Allergy Relief Drug Facts label (Guideline Central, from DailyMed); Zyrtec Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label). Checked October 17, 2026. Not medical advice. How we check.