Allergies - Zyrtec
Generic Name:
cetirizine (seh TEER ih zeen)
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What is Zyrtec? |
Zyrtec is perfect for helping children over come their allergy problems. Zyrtec is safe for children as young as 2 years old and can be purchased in both a pill and liquid form. The liquid syrup comes in grape and banana flavors, and is dye and alcohol free, which should make taking care of your child a safe and pleasant experience.
If you are looking to use an antihistamine to treat your seasonal allergies, Zyrtec is the perfect solution. Antihistamines are medications that block the action of histamines, a natural substance produced by the body during an allergic reaction.
Zyrtec is a prescription allergy medication designed to treat the symptoms of indoor and outdoor seasonal allergies. Indoor symptoms may be caused by things such as dust, mold, and pet dander. Outdoor allergies are most often caused by pollen from trees, grass, and weeds.
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What should you Know? |
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Cetirizine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking cetirizine.
While you are taking cetirizine, do not take other prescription or over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
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Before Using |
Do not take cetirizine without first talking to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to it or to the medication hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril).
Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
Cetirizine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take cetirizine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Cetirizine passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take cetirizine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from cetirizine. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication. |
Directions |
Take cetirizine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take the tablets with a full glass of water.
Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
To ensure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of cetirizine with a dose-measuring spoon, cup, or dropper, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
Cetirizine can be taken with or without food.
Store cetirizine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
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What happens if I miss a dose?
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If you are taking cetirizine on a regular schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.
If you are taking cetirizine as needed, take the missed dose if it is needed, then wait the recommended or prescribed amount of time before taking another dose. |
Cautions |
Stop taking cetirizine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take cetirizine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· drowsiness;
· dizziness;
· headache; or
· dry mouth.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. |
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