Zyrtec (generic name: cetirizine) is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching.
Usage
- Take Zyrtec exactly as directed by your doctor or as indicated on the label.
- The dosage depends on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
- Zyrtec can be taken with or without food.
- If using the chewable tablets, chew them well before swallowing.
- For the orally disintegrating tablet, allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
- Measure liquid medicine using the supplied measuring device.
- Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Side effects
Zyrtec may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.
- Driving and Alertness: Zyrtec may impair thinking or reactions, so be cautious when driving or operating machinery.
- Alcohol Interaction: Drinking alcohol can intensify certain side effects of cetirizine.
- Other Medications: Inform your doctor if you use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, or medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety).
- Allergies: Do not use Zyrtec if you are allergic to cetirizine or similar medicines like levocetirizine or hydroxyzine.
- Health Conditions: Tell your doctor about any health problems, including liver or kidney disease.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of action
Zyrtec reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose.