What is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec is a brand of antihistamine medication that is commonly used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing , runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride (HCI), which works by blocking the release of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical that is released by the body's immune system in response to an allergen, and it can cause swelling, itching, and other symptoms associated with allergies.
Zyrtec is available in tablet and liquid form, with dosages varying depending on the age and weight of the patient. The medication can be taken with or without food and typically provides relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours with a single daily dose. Zyrtec is also available without a prescription and is a widely recognized brand in the world of allergy relief.
Zyrtec is considered one of the most effective over-the-counter antihistamines, and it is recommended by many doctors and allergists. It is known to have fewer side effects than some other antihistamine medications. However, like all medications, Zyrtec can cause side effects, which may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and headache.
Overall, Zyrtec is a popular and effective medication for treating allergy symptoms, and it can provide relief for individuals who suffer from allergies due to a number of triggers, including pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. As with any medication, it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions about zyrtec
Cetirizine is generally very safe. Taking more than the usual dose is unlikely to harm you or your child. If you take an extra dose, you might get some of the common side effects. If this happens or you're concerned, contact your doctor.
Avoid alcohol when you are taking ZYRTEC. In sensitive patients, the concurrent administration of ZYRTEC and alcohol may cause additional drowsiness and impairment of performance. Pregnancy and breastfeeding ZYRTEC is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
Adverse effects such as confusion, diarrhoea, dizziness, tiredness, headache, malaise (feeling unwell), dilating of pupil, itching, restlessness, sedation, somnolence (sleepiness), stupor, abnormal rapid heart rate, tremors and urinary retention (difficulty in completely emptying the bladder) have been reported.
Antihistamines, mainly used to treat symptoms of hay fever or other allergies, can induce drowsiness by working against a chemical produced by the central nervous system (histamine). These medications can be useful in certain situations, such as for treating sleeplessness related to travel.
Depending on your symptoms, you can take antihistamines: Every day, to help keep daily symptoms under control. Only when you have symptoms. Before being exposed to things that often cause your allergy symptoms, such as a pet or certain plants.
It's generally safe to take the newer generation of antihistamines daily if you have year-round allergy symptoms.
Official answer. Cetirizine can be taken at any time of the day. In most people it is non-sedating, so they take it in the morning. However, a percentage of people do find it to be sedating so if it does make you drowsy it is best to take it in the evening.
First generation antihistamines, while very effective at controlling symptoms, are often associated with symptoms in older adults such as anxiety, confusion, sedation, blurred vision, reduced mental alertness, urinary retention and constipation.
Cetirizine can be taken at any time of the day. In most people it is non-sedating, so they take it in the morning. However, a percentage of people do find it to be sedating so if it does make you drowsy it is best to take it in the evening. Cetirizine can be taken with or without food.
Official answer. Yes, most people can take antihistamines every day, if they have daily symptoms of their allergies.
Is it okay to take ZYRTEC® over a long period of time? The ZYRTEC® package label doesn't state a limit on how long you can take ZYRTEC®. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions, especially if you're taking other medicines or being treated for any other conditions.
Cetirizine can be taken at any time of the day. In most people it is non-sedating, so they take it in the morning. However, a percentage of people do find it to be sedating so if it does make you drowsy it is best to take it in the evening. Cetirizine can be taken with or without food.
Zyrtec's main ingredient is cetirizine, another second-generation antihistamine. While it's considered to be non-drowsy, Zyrtec may cause more drowsiness than Claritin. Like the situations above, combining it with alcohol can make you drowsier. Avoid or limit alcohol with this combination.
Answer: They don't mean to imply that Zyrtec is not for folks over the age of 65. What they actually recommend is that if you're over 65, or if you have liver or kidney problems, you should ask your doctor if it's OK to use it.
6+ years 5 mL or 10 mL once daily depending on severity of symptoms. Adults 65 years and over 5 mL once daily; do not take more than 5 mL in 24 hours. Consumers with liver or kidney disease Ask a doctor. Use only as directed.
Zyrtec® allergy relief tablets temporarily relieve the following symptoms due to hay fever, seasonal allergies or other upper respiratory allergies for a full 24 hours: Runny nose. Sneezing.
