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Before You Before You Buy Zyrtec

By , About.com Guide

Updated August 04, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Zyrtec is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies. Zyrtec is the brand name for the drug cetirizine. It is available for adults and children over 2 years old.

Active Ingredient:

Cetirizine

Dosage and Directions:

Adults and children ages 6 to 64:

  • One (10mg) tablet every 24 hours
  • One to two 5mg chewable tablets every 24 hours depending on severity of symptoms

Children ages 2 to 6 years old and adults over age 65:

  • One half (2.5mg) to one (5mg) teaspoon every 24 hours depending on severity of symptoms

Children under 2 years old:

  • Ask a doctor

Purpose:

Zyrtec is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies, hay fever and hives which include:

  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy eyes, nose or throat
  • Itchy rash (hives)

Side Effects of Zyrtec:

Possible side effects of Zyrtec include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry Mouth
  • Irritability
  • Loss of sleep
  • Sore throat
  • Stomach pain
  • Swelling

If any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider.

Certain side effects can be very serious. If you have any of the following after taking Zyrtec or cetirizine, seek medical advice immediately.

  • Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as hives, itching, skin rash, swelling of face, lips or tongue
  • Changes in vision or hearing
  • Fast heartbeat
  • High blood pressure
  • Infection
  • Trouble urinating or change in amount of urine

Warnings:

If you have hives and experience difficulty breathing, significant swelling of the tongue or lips, wheezing, difficulty speaking or swallowing, dizziness, drooling, vomiting or loss of consciousness - seek emergency medical attention immediately. These are signs of a potentially life threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Ask a Doctor Before Using Zyrtec If:

  • You are allergic to Zyrtec, cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any other medications.
  • You have liver disease.
  • You have kidney disease.
  • You are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

-

Sources:

"Zyrtec Products." McNeil - PPC, Inc. 2009. 01 Aug 09.

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