Typical Brand Name(s): Zyrtec
What Is It Used For?
Zyrtec is an antihistamine that helps to relieve your allergy
symptoms by blocking the effects of histamines.
How Is It Used?
How much Zyrtec you take and how often you take it depends on
many factors, including the condition being treated and the weight
and age of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount
and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, speak with your
health care provider. Avoid alcohol and other mental depressants
(eg, narcotics, tranquilizers, antihistamines) while you are taking
this medicine. This medicine may be taken with or without food.
This medicine may produce drowsiness; patients should observe
caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness,
physical dexterity, or coordination. Do not stop taking this medication
without consulting with your doctor. Do not take more medication
than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health
care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should
talk with their health care provider before taking this medication.
Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications
without talking with your doctor.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Stop taking Zyrtec and seek emergency medical attention if you
experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing
of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur.
Continue to take Zyrtec and talk to your doctor if you experience
sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness; headache; or dry mouth.
Is It Safe?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other
hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to hydroxyzine or
any ingredient in this medicine.
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is
almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take
only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double
dose of this medication.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny
nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.
Zyrtec is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other
allergic inflammatory conditions.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
