DRUG INFORMATION - ZYRTEC
Zyrtec Uses
Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Antihistamines
prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering
of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms. Zyrtec is
used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and
other allergic inflammatory conditions.
How Taken
Zyrtec comes as a tablet to take it orally. It
usually is taken once a day. It may be taken
regularly or when allergy symptoms flare up. Follow
the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part you do not understand. Take Zyrtec exactly as
directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Warnings/Precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor
if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a
lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy
with Zyrtec. Zyrtec is in the FDA pregnancy category
B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn
baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to
your doctor if you are pregnant. Zyrtec passes into
breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not
take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if
you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 60
years of age, you may be more likely to experience
side effects from Zyrtec. You may require a lower
dose of this medication.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, do not take an
extra tablet to catch up for the dose you forgot.
Wait and take your next tablet at the regular time.
Do not take more tablets than your doctor
prescribed.
Possible Side Effects
Stop taking Zyrtec and seek emergency medical
attention if you experience an allergic reaction
(difficulty breathing; closing of your throat;
swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely
to occur. Continue to take Zyrtec and talk to your
doctor if you experience sleepiness, fatigue, or
dizziness; headache; or dry mouth. Side effects
other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to
your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual
or that is especially bothersome.
Storage
Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F); excursions permitted
to 15-30°C (59-86°F).
Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a
Zyrtec overdose are not well known, but extreme
sleepiness, confusion, and weakness may be expected.
More Information
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or
performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may
cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience
dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use
alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness
and dizziness while you are taking Zyrtec.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information
purposes only, it is not intended that this
information covers all uses, directions, drug
interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of
your medication. This is only general information,
and should not be relied on for any purpose. It
should not be construed as containing specific
instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim
all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability
of this information, and/or any consequences arising
from the use of this information, including damage
or adverse consequences to persons or property,
however such damages or consequences arise. No
warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in
regards to this information.
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