Uses
What exactly is cetirizine used for?
Cetirizine is widely used to treat the following.
Treat allergy symptoms include runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, or itchy nose or throat.
Reduce itching and hives on the skin caused by chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Cetirizine may also be used to treat other conditions as indicated by your healthcare provider.
Cetirizine's method of action is described below.
Cetirizine is an antihistamine. It alleviates allergy symptoms, itching, and hives by inhibiting the action of a chemical in your body known as histamine.
Cetirizine is given in many dose forms.
Brand and other names
Children's Zyrtec
Children with Zyrtec Allergy
Children's Zyrtec chewable tablets
Children with Zyrtec hives or allergies.
Dosage types and strengths
2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg chewable pills.
10 mg oral capsules.
5 mg/5 mL (1 mg/mL) oral solution or syrup.
5 mg and 10 mg oral tablets
10 mg orally disintegrating tablets.
Cetirizine is also available as an eyedrop.
How should I store cetirizine?
Cetirizine should be kept at room temperature, between 68 and 77 F (20 and 25 C). It can withstand temperatures ranging from 59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 30 degrees Celsius) for brief periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry area. Keep light out.
Side Effects
What are cetirizine's most prevalent adverse effects?
The most often reported side effects of cetirizine are mentioned below. Side effects may differ according to your age. Inform your healthcare professional if any of these adverse effects annoy you.
Drowsiness
Headache
A sore throat or cough
Stomach ache.
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Nosebleeds
Being unpleasant or fussy
Problems sleeping
Cetirizine may have other adverse effects that have not been described here. If you believe you are experiencing a side effect from a medication, contact your healthcare provider.
What are the significant adverse effects of Cetirizine?
While less prevalent, the most dangerous cetirizine side effects are listed here, along with what to do if they occur.
Severe allergic reactions. Cetirizine may induce allergic reactions that are severe. If you experience any of the following signs of a severe allergic reaction, stop taking cetirizine and seek medical attention immediately.
breathing issues or wheezing.
A racing heart
Fever or general sick feeling.
Swollen lymph nodes.
Swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat.
Difficulty swallowing or throat tightness
Itching, skin rash, or pale red lumps on the skin, known as hives
Nausea or vomiting.
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
Stomach cramps.
Joint discomfort.
Breathing problems. Cetirizine may cause the muscles surrounding the airways to stiffen (bronchospasm) in some persons, which can be dangerous. If you are having difficulty breathing, stop taking cetirizine and notify your doctor right once.
Warnings and Precautions
Who shouldn't use cetirizine?
Allergies to ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should avoid using cetirizine.
Cetirizine
Children's Zyrtec
Children with Zyrtec Allergy
Children's Zyrtec chewable tablets
Children's Zyrtec Hives
Hydroxyzine and Zyrtec Allergy
Any of the ingredients in the particular product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you about all of the ingredients in the cetirizine medications they carry.
What should I know about cetirizine prior to using it?
If your doctor has prescribed cetirizine, follow the directions exactly. If you are taking cetirizine over the counter (OTC), read and follow the package directions.
Do not distribute cetirizine prescribed to you by a health care provider with others, even if they have the same condition. It may cause them harm.
Keep cetirizine out of reach of youngsters.
If you're taking cetirizine chewable pills, chew or crush them fully before swallowing.
If you are using cetirizine liquid, use an accurate measurement equipment to determine your dosage. A household spoon is not a precise measuring equipment and may cause you to take an incorrect dose. Ask your pharmacist to propose a suitable measuring device.
Cetirizine may impair your alertness or coordination. Do not drive or engage in any other activities that require alertness or coordination until you understand how cetirizine affects you.
People over the age of 65 are more likely to have some negative effects from cetirizine. If you are in this age bracket, discuss your risks with your healthcare physician.
What should I notify my doctor before using cetirizine?
Inform your healthcare provider about any of your medical issues, as well as any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are taking. This will help them assess whether cetirizine is appropriate for you.
Make careful to bring up any of the following.
Current and previous health conditions. Inform your healthcare professional if you have any of the following.
Liver issues.
Kidney issues.
Other medicines and supplements. Cetirizine may interact with other drugs and supplements. Before taking cetirizine, inform your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, or other supplements you are taking. See the Interactions section for more information.
Pregnancy. It is unknown if or how cetirizine may impact pregnancy or harm an unborn child. Inform your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Your doctor will tell you whether you should take cetirizine while pregnant or attempting to conceive.
Breastfeeding. Cetirizine gets into breast milk. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are nursing or want to breastfeed. Your doctor will tell you if you should take cetirizine during breastfeeding.