Cetirizine

Cetirizine is a second generation antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Introduction #

Generic name: Cetirizine

Brand name: Zyrtec

Drug class: Antihistamines

Uses #

Treatment of Allergic conditions

Benefits #

• Cetrizine Tablet provides relief from symptoms such as blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes.

• This will make it easier for you to go about your daily activities. It can also give relief from allergic reactions after insect bites and symptoms of hives and eczema such as rash, swelling, itching, and irritation.

• This will improve the appearance of your skin and you may find that your mood and self-confidence improve as well. It rarely has any serious side effects and you may only need to take it on days you have symptoms.

• If you are taking it to prevent getting symptoms you should use it regularly to get the most benefit.

How it works? #

Cetrizine Tablet is an antihistaminic medication. It treats allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking the effects of a chemical messenger (histamine) in the body.

Directions for use #

• Take cetirizine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

• You may take cetirizine with or without food.

• The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

• Oral doses: measure liquid medicine (oral solution) with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Side effects #

Get emergency medical help if you have any serious adverse effects or any of these signs of an allergic reaction: chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives); difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using cetirizine and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

• Weakness, tremors (uncontrolled shaking), or sleep problems (insomnia)

• Severe restless feeling, hyperactivity

• Confusion

• Problems with vision

• Urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious cetirizine side effects may include:

• Dizziness, drowsiness

• Tired feeling

• Dry mouth

• Sore throat, cough

• Nausea, constipation

• Headache.

Warnings #

• Cetirizine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of cetirizine.

• Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as other cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by cetirizine.

• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you also have a fever.