Highlights
- Cetirizine, commonly known as Zyrtec, is a popular antihistamine that provides indoor and outdoor allergy relief.
- This non-drowsy medication works by blocking histamine and preventing many allergy symptoms.
- Side effects are typically mild, but it’s important to understand how this drug works and interacts with other medications.
- Cetirizine is available both over the counter and by prescription.
- You can get the best price for your allergy medications with BidRx.
If you think of spring as sneezing season, you may be one of over 100 million Americans who suffer from allergies. Itchy watery eyes and a runny or stuffy nose are the hallmarks of sinus allergies, but thankfully, many people can find relief with antihistamines. Cetirizine, often known by the brand name Zyrtec, is one of the most popular antihistamines available both over the counter (OTC) or by prescription.
What Is Cetirizine and What Is It Used For?
Cetirizine is an antihistamine that can treat a wide range of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, runny nose, hives, and mild swelling. These common symptoms are often triggered by sensitivity to pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold.
Cetirizine can also be used off-label for treating sensitive skin conditions like atopic dermatitis (a common form of eczema). In some cases, antihistamines like cetirizine or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may also be used to treat food allergies.
The term “off-label” means that a medication has not been approved by the FDA for treatment of a particular condition, so it may or may not be effective for that use.
How Does Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Work?
As an antihistamine, cetirizine selectively blocks the effects of histamine, which is naturally produced when the body is exposed to allergens. Normally, histamine binds to H1 receptors and triggers a cascade of immune system responses that protect the body. For people who suffer from allergies, this process is over-responsive. Cetirizine interrupts this process and reduces the most common allergy-related symptoms.
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that lasts longer and is generally considered less sedating than first-generation antihistamines.
Cetirizine Dosage and Administration
Cetirizine is available in many forms, including tablets, chewables, and liquid syrups. Generic cetirizine and brand-name Zyrtec are available over the counter in 5 and 10 milligram strengths. Prescription strength cetirizine is used for treating severe allergy symptoms that aren’t controlled by over-the-counter strengths.
Both prescription and OTC forms of medication have been FDA approved to treat people over the age of two.
Note that these are general guidelines. Only a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate dosage for an individual.
How Should I Take Cetirizine?
Cetirizine is typically taken by mouth, with or without food, once per day. Young children and people who have trouble swallowing tablets may prefer the chewable and liquid syrup version of this medication.
If your doctor has prescribed cetirizine, take it exactly as your healthcare provider recommends. If you are taking the OTC version of this medication, carefully follow the included instructions.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Cetirizine (Zyrtec)?
All medications, even those available over the counter, can have side effects. No list of side effects is complete, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. In very rare cases, it is possible to be allergic to cetirizine. It’s important to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about cetirizine and discuss all side effects.
Common Side Effects of Cetirizine
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Headache
Less Common but More Severe Side Effects of Cetirizine
- Allergic reaction, which may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea or vomiting
What Should I Avoid When Taking Cetirizine?
Although cetirizine is considered non-drowsy, drowsiness may be a side effect, especially when taking larger doses. Until you know how this medication affects you, it’s important to be careful doing activities that require mental alertness.
- Limit or avoid alcohol while taking cetirizine because it can increase the sedative effect of the medication.
- Use caution when taking other over-the-counter or prescription medications that also have drowsiness as a side effect.
- Higher doses of cetirizine can make you more sensitive to sunlight, so wear sunscreen outdoors and avoid excessive UV exposure.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Cetirizine?
If you miss a dose of cetirizine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one. Avoid suddenly stopping cetirizine; discontinuation can trigger pruritis (intense itching).
What Should I Do If I Overdose on Cetirizine?
If you suspect an overdose of cetirizine, seek immediate medical attention or call your local poison control center. Symptoms of an overdose can include extreme drowsiness, confusion, fever, flushing, and rapid heart rate.
What Precautions Should I Take With Cetirizine?
Before taking this medication, speak to your doctor about cetirizine’s effects and follow these special precautions:
- Discuss allergies. Tell your doctor about your allergy symptoms as well as any allergies to medications, particularly to cetirizine or hydroxyzine.
- Medication review. Before taking cetirizine, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you’re using. Be sure to mention antidepressants, seizure medications, and other allergy medications.
- Health history. Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver disease.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Cetirizine may be safe to take during pregnancy, but you should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- Understand side effects. Cetirizine can cause drowsiness, so use caution when driving or using machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Alcohol can intensify these effects, so limit or avoid alcohol while taking cetirizine.
Contraindications of Cetirizine
Some people should not take cetirizine. Others should use it with caution under close medical supervision.
Keep in mind that these lists are general guidelines. In special cases, doctors may feel the benefits of taking a particular medication outweigh the risks, so if you are in one of these groups, talk to your doctor about your personal situation.
Who Should Not Take Cetirizine?
- Individuals with a known allergy to cetirizine or hydroxyzine
- Patients with severe kidney disease not on dialysis
Who Should Take Cetirizine With Caution?
- People with mild to moderate kidney or liver disease
- Older adults because they may be more susceptible to side effects like drowsiness and confusion
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Patients taking central nervous system depressants, including:
- Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), or alprazolam (Xanax)
- Non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics, such as zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), or zaleplon (Sonata)
- Barbiturates, such as mephobarbital Mebaral) or phenobarbital (Luminal)
Are There Any Other Potential Drug Interactions With Cetirizine (Zyrtec)?
According to Drugs.com, a significant number of drugs and supplements can interact with this medication.
The most important potential interactions to be aware of include:
For the complete known interactions list, visit the Drugs.com Drug Interactions Checker. However, no list of potential drug interactions is complete, so let your provider know if you experience any new or unusual symptoms after taking this medication.
Antihistamines Can Help You Enjoy Springtime Again
Seasonal allergies shouldn’t keep you trapped indoors, and indoor allergens like dust and pet dander shouldn’t derail your life. Cetirizine — either by prescription or as an occasional OTC treatment — can provide effective non-drowsy relief that lasts all day. As with any medication, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to maximize the health benefits and minimize side effects.
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This information is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication.
