Zyrtec

Zyrtec

     * Generic Name: cetirizine
     * Brand Name: Zyrtec


     * What is cetirizine?
     * What are the possible side effects of cetirizine?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       cetirizine?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       cetirizine?
     * How should I take cetirizine?
     * What happens if I miss a dose?
     * What happens if I overdose?
     * What should I avoid while taking cetirizine?
     * What other drugs will affect cetirizine?
     * Where can I get more information?

What is cetirizine?

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

   Cetirizine is used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as
   sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or runny nose.

   Cetirizine is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by chronic
   urticaria (hives).

   Cetirizine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of cetirizine?

   Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
   hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or
   throat.

   Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
     * fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;
     * weakness, tremors (uncontrolled shaking), or sleep problems
       (insomnia);
     * severe restless feeling, hyperactivity;
     * confusion;
     * problems with vision; or
     * little or no urination.

   Common side effects may include:
     * dizziness, drowsiness;
     * dry mouth;
     * nausea, constipation; or
     * tired feeling.

   This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call
   your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side
   effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about cetirizine?

   Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of
   your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies,
   and all medicines you use.

   Zyrtec Patient Information including How Should I Take
   Could I Be Allergic? Discover Your Allergy Triggers

   Common Allergy Triggers Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Quiz on Allergies
   Nasal Allergy Relief:Products That Work

   Nasal Allergy Relief Products Slideshow Pictures

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cetirizine?

   You should not use cetirizine if you are allergic to it.

   Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine
   if you have any medical conditions.

   It is not known whether cetirizine will harm an unborn baby. Ask a
   doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

   It is not known whether cetirizine passes into breast milk or if it
   could harm a nursing baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if
   you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take cetirizine?

   Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
   Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

   Older adults may need to take a lower than normal dose. Follow your
   doctor's instructions.

   You may take this medication with or without food.

   The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

   Do not swallow the dissolving tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in
   your mouth without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet
   dissolves. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the
   dissolved tablet.

   Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a
   special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a
   dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

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

   Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the
   liquid form of this medicine to freeze.

   Zyrtec Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose
   Could I Be Allergic? Discover Your Allergy Triggers

   Common Allergy Triggers Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Quiz on Allergies
   Nasal Allergy Relief:Products That Work

   Nasal Allergy Relief Products Slideshow Pictures

What happens if I miss a dose?

   Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if
   it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra
   medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

   Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
   1-800-222-1222.

   Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous, and then
   feeling drowsy.

What should I avoid while taking cetirizine?

   This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if
   you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

   Avoid drinking alcohol while taking cetirizine.

What other drugs will affect cetirizine?

   Taking cetirizine with other drugs that make you sleepy can worsen this
   effect. Ask your doctor before taking a sleeping pill, narcotic
   medication, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or
   seizures.

   Other drugs may interact with cetirizine, including prescription and
   over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of
   your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any
   medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

   Your pharmacist can provide more information about cetirizine.
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