Zyrtec

The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. It works as an antihistamine by lessening the effects of the natural chemical histamine in the body during an allergic reaction. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Zyrtec. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Zyrtec:

• Read all directions on the product package carefully before taking Zyrtec over-the-counter (OTC).
• Take it as prescribed by your doctor.
• For chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow.
• If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure it carefully with the supplied measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon, as you may not get the correct dose.
• Do not attempt to increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

The most common side effects of Zyrtec include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Tiredness
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Sweating
• Numbness/Tingling
• Altered sense of taste
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Zyrtec. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Difficulty urinating
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include a rash, itching/swelling (face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing

These are not all of the possible side effects of Zyrtec. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Zyrtec, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Recently used alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers
• Difficulty urinating (due to an enlarged prostate)
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Previous Zyrtec allergy or are allergic to other antihistamines such as loratadine, hydroxyzine, or levocetirizine

• Zyrtec may impair your thinking or reactions. Be cautious if you drive or do anything that requires you to be attentive. Drinking alcohol can also increase certain side effects of Zyrtec. It is also important to note that Zyrtec does not prevent hives or treat serious allergic reactions (such as anaphylaxis). Also, Zyrtec is very similar to loratadine, hydroxyzine, and levocetirizine. Do not use these medications while taking Zyrtec.
• Be sure to check the product labels for all the inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Zyrtec will begin to work within one hour after you take it. It provides allergy relief for 24 hours for symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat.

When Zyrtec is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking so they can check for drug interactions, including:

• Alcohol
• Other cold or allergy medicines that contain antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine or diphenhydramine
• Marijuana (cannabis)
• Sleep or anxiety medications (alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem)
• Muscle relaxants (carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine)
• Any other medications or drugs that may cause drowsiness

There are varying forms of Zyrtec available. Below are some examples:

• Zyrtec 5 mg and 10 mg tablets
• Zyrtec 5 mg and 10 mg chewable tablets
• Liquid syrup

Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from any light and moisture. Do not store this medication in the bathroom. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Division is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Zyrtec.

There are lower-cost generics available of the brand name Zyrtec.

Do not stop or change the dosage while taking this medication without your physician's approval.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Make sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor and only use Zyrtec when needed.

Zyrtec is known to pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.