Information on Zyrtec

Pronounced: ZEER-tek
Generic name: Cetirizine hydrochloride

Why is Zyrtec prescribed?

Zyrtec is an antihistamine. It is prescribed to treat the sneezing; itchy, runny nose; and itchy, red, watery eyes caused by seasonal allergies such as hay fever. Zyrtec also relieves the symptoms of year-round allergies due to dust, mold, and animal dander. This medication is also used in the treatment of chronic itchy skin and hives.

Most important fact about Zyrtec

Zyrtec may cause drowsiness. Be especially careful driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how you react to this medication.

How should you take Zyrtec?

Take Zyrtec once a day, exactly as prescribed. This medication can be taken with or without food.

Zyrtec may make your mouth dry. Sucking hard candy, chewing a stick of gum, or melting bits of ice in your mouth can provide relief.

--If you miss a dose...

If you are taking this medication on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store tablets and syrup at room temperature.

What side effects may occur with Zyrtec?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zyrtec.

More common side effects in adults may include:

drowsiness
dry mouth
fatigue

Less common side effects in adults may include:

dizziness
sore throat

More common side effects in children aged 6 to 11 may include:

abdominal pain
coughing
diarrhea
headache
nosebleed
sleepiness
sore throat
wheezing

Less common side effects in children aged 6 to 11 may include:

nausea
vomiting

Why should this Zyrtec NOT be prescribed?

Avoid Zyrtec if it causes a reaction, or if you have ever had a reaction to the similar drug Atarax.

Special warnings about Zyrtec

If you have kidney or liver disease, be sure to tell your doctor. Your dose of this medication may have to be reduced.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zyrtec

You should avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, or muscle relaxants while using Zyrtec. They can lead to increased drowsiness and reduced mental alertness. Among the products to avoid are the following:

Antidepressants such as Tofranil, Elavil, Ludiomil, and Anafranil
Muscle relaxants such as Valium and Soma
Pain-relieving narcotics such as codeine, Demerol, and Percocet
Sedatives such as Nembutal, Seconal, and phenobarbital
Sleeping pills such as Halcion, Restoril, and Ambien
High doses of theophylline (Theo-Dur)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Zyrtec during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Zyrtec appears in breast milk and should not be used if you are breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS AND OLDER

The usual starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams once a day, depending on the severity of your symptoms. If you have a kidney or liver condition, the doctor will probably prescribe 5 milligrams daily.

CHILDREN 6 TO 11 YEARS

The usual starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams (1 or 2 teaspoonfuls of syrup) once a day. If your child has a kidney or liver condition, the doctor will probably prescribe the lower dose.

CHILDREN 2 TO 5 YEARS

The usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams (half a teaspoonful) once a day. Dosage may be increased to a maximum of 5 milligrams (1 teaspoonful) once daily or 2.5 milligrams (half a teaspoonful) every 12 hours. If the child has a kidney or liver condition, Zyrtec should not be given.

Zyrtec Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. In adults, the primary symptom of a Zyrtec overdose is extreme sleepiness. In children, restlessness and irritability may precede drowsiness. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.