Zyrtec Online

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Zyrtec is used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or runny nose. Zyrtec is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by hives. Zyrtec may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

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

Before taking this medicine

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

How should I take Zyrtec?

Take Zyrtec exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of cetirizine can be fatal. Cetirizine is usually taken once daily. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not take more cetirizine than is recommended on the label or ordered by your doctor. An overdose of cetirizine can be fatal.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cetirizine is usually taken only when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, 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. An overdose of cetirizine can be fatal.

What should I avoid while taking Zyrtec?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with cetirizine and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking this medicine.

Avoid using antacids within 15 minutes before or after taking Zyrtec. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb cetirizine.

Zyrtec side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: Common Zyrtec side effects may include: drowsiness, tired feeling; dry mouth, nose, or throat; sleep problems (insomnia); stomach pain, upset stomach; diarrhea, constipation; headache; or cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, cough.

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.

See also: Side effects (in more detail)

Zyrtec dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis: 10 mg orally once a day -Some patients may require a higher dose for optimal effect -Duration of therapy: Up to 6 weeks Uses: -Relief of sneezing and runny nose due to allergies -Relief of itching due to hives -Symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:

2 years or older: 2.5 to 5 mg orally once a day -Maximum dose: 10 mg/day Uses: -Relief of sneezing and runny nose due to allergies -Relief of itching due to hives -Symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis

What other drugs will affect Zyrtec?

Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can worsen these effects. Ask your doctor before taking cetirizine with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, 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 your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.