An over-the-counter medication called Cetirizine helps ease mild to severe allergy symptoms.
You may get Cetirizine over-the-counter (OTC) from a pharmacy as an antihistamine. That means a prescription is not required.
Cetirizine is available in pills and capsules. It usually only has to be taken once daily and starts working immediately.
Additionally, it is reasonably priced, often costing less than $1 a day for name-brand products like Zyrtec, Aller-Tec, and Alleroff and much less for generic alternatives.
Cetirizine is a safe and effective medication, but before using it, you should be informed of several warnings and safety measures. Learn the effects of this medication, its applications, and safe dosage techniques.
Why Is It Used?
Your doctor could advise Cetirizine if you have seasonal or year-round allergies like hay fever. Cetirizine doesn’t work to prevent allergies, although it may aid with symptom relief.
Your body releases the chemical histamine when you touch things you could be allergic to (allergens). The majority of allergic response symptoms are caused by histamine.
Cetirizine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine’s effects.
Cetirizine helps the following mild to moderate allergy symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Clogged nose
- Wet or itching eyes
- A stuffy nose or throat
After touching or inhaling pet dander, mold, or plant pollen allergens, you may have these responses. Allergies often affect your nose, sinuses, throat, and other parts of your upper respiratory system.
Additionally, Cetirizine relieves hives. Raised, itchy rashes on the skin are known as hives. They often accompany drug or food sensitivities.
Intake
Adults and kids aged six and older may take Cetirizine capsules and tablets.
One 10-milligram (mg) daily dose is typical for individuals under 65 and children aged six and older.
In 24 hours, you should consume at most 10 mg. If your allergies are minimal, your doctor could advise taking a 5-mg dosage once or twice a day.
Consult your doctor about the recommended dose if you:
- Are aged between two and six
- Are above the age of 65
- Have a kidney or liver condition
Side Effects Of Cetirizine
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine and is less likely to result in side effects such as risky drowsiness, dry mouth, impaired vision, and overheating than first-generation antihistamines.
Cetirizine may have side effects like:
- Some somnolence
- Extreme fatigue
- Mouth ache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Any unexpected adverse effects you experience while taking Cetirizine should be reported to your doctor. Discuss any persistent or troublesome adverse effects as well. Usually, these adverse effects are not life-threatening.
Warnings And Precautions
Here are some things to think about before taking Cetirizine.
Utilizing Machinery Safely
Although Cetirizine often doesn’t make people drowsy, some individuals react differently, particularly after the first few doses.Take care. Driving a vehicle or operating equipment is only advised if you know how Cetirizine affects your body.
Look Through The Ingredients
Avoid using it if you have ever had an adverse response to Cetirizine or its constituents. Also, avoid using Cetirizine if you are allergic to any hydroxyzine-containing antihistamine.
If You Are Pregnant Or Nursing
If you are nursing a baby or want to become pregnant, see your doctor or healthcare provider before using Cetirizine, and in general, using Cetirizine while pregnant is safe.
If You Have Specific Problems, Speak To Your Doctor
Ask your doctor about using Cetirizine if you suffer from liver or renal illness. Your doctor can advise taking less than the recommended dose if they believe it is safe.
Cetirizine Interactions
There are interactions between Cetirizine and other drugs.
For instance, refrain from drinking alcohol when taking Cetirizine. This might be harmful. Cetirizine with alcohol might make you feel sleepy or less attentive.
Before using Cetirizine, let your doctor know if you use any sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleep aids.
Cetirizine might make you sleepier when used with medications that depress your central nervous system. Your nervous system and mind may be further affected.
Cetirizine and theophylline may interact with one another in the body. Some persons with asthma and other lung conditions use theophylline (Theo-24).
Cetirizine’s elimination from the body sometimes took longer when the two medications were taken. The interaction, however, could be dose-related. Only daily theophylline dosages of 400 mg or higher have been documented.
See your doctor if you take theophylline and are thinking about taking Cetirizine.
Cetirizine-D
Combination medications include Cetirizine-D as well as brand-name variations like Zyrtec-D. Decongestant is what the “D” stands for. Cetirizine and the decongestant pseudoephedrine are both included in these medications.
The stimulant pseudoephedrine has the potential to exacerbate several medical disorders. If you have any of the following problems, your doctor may advise you against using cetirizine-D:
- Heart condition
- Thyroid condition
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- High blood pressure
- Prostate enlargement and urinary retention
Consult Your Physician
Before using Cetirizine, like with any medicine, particularly an OTC drug, you should be aware of all the possible adverse effects.
Ask your doctor any questions about your symptoms and any other medical issues you may be experiencing. Your doctor could advise another antihistamine or a prescription-only combo medication, including Cetirizine and another medicine.