Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms.
Symptoms it can alleviate include watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching.
It works by blocking the natural substance histamine, produced by the body during allergic reactions.
Cetirizine does not prevent hives or treat serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
If prescribed epinephrine for allergic reactions, always carry the epinephrine injector and do not substitute it with cetirizine.
Dosage and administration
If self-treating with over-the-counter cetirizine, read package directions before use.
If prescribed by a doctor, take as directed, usually once daily.
Chewable tablets should be chewed well; rapidly dissolving tablets should dissolve on the tongue.
If using the liquid form, measure the dose carefully with a special device, not a household spoon.
Dosage is based on age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Do not exceed the prescribed dose or take more frequently than directed.
Inform your doctor if allergy symptoms persist, hives don’t improve after 3 days, or last more than 6 weeks.
Seek medical help immediately if your condition worsens or if you suspect a serious medical problem, such as a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Side effects
Common side effects may include drowsiness, tiredness, dry mouth, and stomach pain (especially in children).
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
If prescribed by your doctor, remember the perceived benefits generally outweigh the risk of side effects.
Notify your doctor promptly if you experience difficulty urinating or weakness.
Seek immediate medical help if you observe symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
This list does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, levocetirizine, or other substances in the medication.
Share your medical history, especially if you have difficulty urinating, kidney disease, or liver disease.
For hives treatment, promptly notify your doctor of unusual symptoms, such as discolored, bruised, or blistered hives.
Be cautious as this medication may cause drowsiness; avoid activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol or marijuana use, and discuss cannabis use with your doctor.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist about sugar content in liquid products if you have diabetes.
Before surgery, inform your healthcare provider about all products you use, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal.
During pregnancy, use this medication only, if necessary, after discussing risks and benefits with your doctor.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding as cetirizine passes into breast milk.
Additional information
Brand Name:
Zyrtec
Scientific Name:
Cetirizine, Cetirizine – Generic Non Rx, Cetirizine – non Rx
Other Names:
Cetirizine, Reactine, Zyrtec
Strength(s):
5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Quantities Available:
36, 90, 100
Formulation:
Tablet
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Zyrtec
Cetirizine - non Rx
