Information
About Zyrtec
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following 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 use of the drug is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
CETIRIZINE - ORAL TABLET
(set-EYE-rizz-een)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zyrtec
USES: This medication is an antihistamine which provides
relief of allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching
eyes, sneezing, itching and hives.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth once a day as directed.
May be taken with or without food. Do not increase your dose or
take this more often than directed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, sleepiness, dry mouth, fatigue,
dizziness, increased appetite, and nausea may occur. These effects
should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they
continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your
doctor if you develop any of these serious effects while taking
this medication: chest pain, rash, trouble breathing. This medication
may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution engaging in activities
requiring alertness. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: liver or kidney disease, asthma, any blood disorders, any
any allergies. This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen
when outdoors. Limit intake of alcohol to prevent excessive drowsiness.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication.
This medication is excreted into human breast milk. Discuss the
risks of breast-feeding with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter
and prescription medication you may take including: sedatives,
tranquilizers, narcotic pain relievers, sleep medicine, drugs
for anxiety, barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), psychiatric medicines,
other antihistamines. Do not start or stop any medicine without
doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include sleepiness, shortness of breath, clumsiness,
hallucinations, and seizures.
NOTES: This medication can affect results of allergy tests.
Remind your doctor you are taking this drug if you are scheduled
for any tests.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered;
do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees
C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
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