Zyrtec (Cetirizine) is an over-the-counter and prescription medication used to relieve cold or allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching. The drug can also help treat itching and swelling resulting from chronic urticaria (hives). The active ingredient in Zyrtec is Cetirizine. Cetirizine belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by reducing the effect of the natural chemical histamine in the body to reduce symptoms such as itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Zyrtec from Canada (Reactine) manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and India by a different manufacturer. The generic Cetirizine comes from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Zyrtec. The most common side effects of Zyrtec may include the following:
• Cough;
• Drowsiness;
• Sweating;
• Tiredness;
• Upset stomach
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Difficulty urinating;
• Nosebleed;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Zyrtec. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Zyrtec if you are allergic to Cetirizine or any ingredient in Zyrtec. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease;
• Have recently used a sedative or tranquilizer
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Zyrtec and other medicines, like codeine, lorazepam, cyclobenzaprine, hydroxyzine, diphenhydramine, etc.
Benadryl, albuterol, ibuprofen, furosemide, atorvastatin, amlodipine, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Zyrtec will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Cetirizine passes into breast milk, and it may harm your nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Zyrtec comes as a tablet. You can take this drug with or without food. If you are using the chewable tablet, chew each tablet before swallowing. If you use the oral-disintegrating tablet, allow it to dissolve on your tongue and then swallow it with or without water. Zyrtec may make you dizzy or impair your reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires alertness. Avoid alcohol when using this medicine. Alcohol can increase the side effects of Cetirizine. Inform your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve after three days of treatment or if your hives last more than six weeks. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.