| Zyrtec | Nasacort | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | cetirizine | triamcinolone acetonide |
| Active ingredient | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg | Triamcinolone acetonide 55 mcg per spray |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill) | Steroid nasal spray |
| Label uses | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat | nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose |
| Nasal congestion on label | No | Yes |
| Drowsiness | May cause drowsiness | No drowsiness warning |
| How often | Once a day | Once a day |
| Youngest age on label | 6 years | 2 years |
| Maximum | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours | 2 sprays in each nostril once a day |
The main differences
They are different kinds of medicine. Zyrtec is an oral antihistamine (pill) you swallow; Nasacort is a steroid nasal spray you spray into the nose. Nasacort's label lists nasal congestion among its uses; Zyrtec's does not.
On drowsiness: Zyrtec: The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving. Nasacort: The label has no drowsiness warning.
For children, Nasacort is labeled from age 2, while Zyrtec is labeled from age 6.
Which might suit you
- you want a single daily pill
- a stuffy nose is your main problem
- you need to stay alert during the day
- it is for a child aged 2 or older
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
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.
Nasacort
- Adults and children 12 and over: 2 sprays in each nostril once daily. Once symptoms improve, reduce to 1 spray in each nostril daily.
- Children 6 to under 12: 1 spray in each nostril once daily (adult supervision). If no improvement, 2 sprays per nostril, then back to 1 once better.
- Children 2 to under 6: 1 spray in each nostril once daily (adult supervision).
- Children under 2: Do not use.
Key warnings
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.
Nasacort
- Do not use in children under 2.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have had recent nose ulcers or surgery, an unhealed nose injury, an eye infection, glaucoma or cataracts, or use another steroid medicine.
- The growth rate of some children may be slower while using it.
- Stop and ask a doctor if exposed to chickenpox, measles or tuberculosis, or with severe or frequent nosebleeds or vision changes.
Compare prices for Zyrtec Compare prices for Nasacort
Frequently asked questions
Is Zyrtec or Nasacort 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 Zyrtec and Nasacort together?
The labels don't cover taking these two together. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining allergy medicines.
Sources: Zyrtec Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label); Nasacort Allergy 24HR Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label). Checked October 17, 2026. Not medical advice. How we check.