What are zyrtec side effects

Zyrtec Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.Cetirizine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis). If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use cetirizine in place of your epinephrine.

How to use Zyrtec

If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed, usually once daily.

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve, if your hives do not improve after 3 days of treatment, or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Get medical help right away if your condition worsens or if you think you have a serious medical problem (such as a very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).

Side Effects

Drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth may occur. Stomach pain may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: difficulty urinating, weakness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to hydroxyzine; or to levocetirizine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: difficulty urinating (such as due to an enlarged prostate), kidney disease, liver disease.

If you are using this medication to treat hives, tell your doctor right away if you have any of these other symptoms because they may be signs of a more serious condition: hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch.

This drug may make you drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Liquid products may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.

Cetirizine is very similar to hydroxyzine and levocetirizine. Do not use these medications while using cetirizine.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Zyrtec interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, irritability) may occur before drowsiness.

Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Different brands of this medication may have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Effectiveness, Ease of Use, and Satisfaction

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Most voted positive review

35 People found this comment helpful

I started taking Zyrtec for my seasonal and non-seasonal sneezing, itching eyes, and itching skin. It worked very well for those things. However, starting about 24-48 hours after I began taking Zyrtec, I found myself feeling sad, "off," and had crying episodes. I did not associate the two, thinking it was something hormonal. However, for the next 3 months, I continued to feel confused, kind of dep...

Most voted negative review

9 People found this comment helpful

I had to take Zyrtec orally when i was 10 for ADHD prescribbed from my doctor. It was horrible exprence for me. It made me depressed, i couldnt pay attention with Zyrtec in my system. My grades slipped and i always had blurry eyes. My docot was concered about me and took me off the drug for a week. After 2 days my grades started going back up, i was happy again and my eyes and allergies were lesse...

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Condition: Non-Seasonal Allergic Runny Nose

Overall rating 3. 3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

Zyrtec works great but the problem is when you stop taking it after using it for months. After stopping it causes sever itching for weeks.

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Condition: Other

Overall rating 3.0

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For some years now, I've been dealing with itchy skin. I have no idea the cause, but it usually happens at night before bedtime. I don't have a rash, just itchy skin that is almost intolerable! I do have dry skin I use lotion for, however even if my skin isn't dry I still have skin itching. I started using Zyrtec, well the generic of it anyway, which is the same product. It works like a miracle for me in relieving my pesky itchy skin, but I have awful side effects where I get restless and anxious and have cognitive effects. I switched to Benadryl generic recently and while it doesn't work quite as long(not more than about 12 to 24 hours at most), it's slightly better for the anxiety side effect, but the anxiety is still there. Perhaps antihistamines give me that side effect? But I just can't handle the Zyrtec due to this! It's very effective for my itchy skin and works for well over 24 hours, but I had to quit. I should mention I have a long history of severe anxiety disorder, and take medication for it, so maybe I can't deal with Zyrtec as good? Be aware of this if you take antihistamines. It may effect you differently but for me, my mental health/cognition eroded while taking it.Read More Read Less

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Condition: Allergic Conjunctivitis

Overall rating 2.0

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It caused me Fixed Drug Eruption. Many areas of my body got pigments and I didn't understand first time because no such side affect mentioned anywhere.

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Condition: Non-Seasonal Allergic Runny Nose

Overall rating 5.0

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I get early spring and late summer congestion, no runny nose yet post nasal drip that feels like I am drowning in my chest. Zyrtec worked so good. I have no drowsiness. I don't take it continuous usually just a couple of days maybe a week at the most until next bout. No side effects what-so-ever.

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 2.7

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I took 1 of these at about 5 pm. My nose was cleared by about 8. BBUUUTTTT!!! I woke up the next day with regular heart palpitations (Flipping and pounding) they lasted the entire day! I had some dizziness and depressed mood as well. Won't take again.

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Condition: Inflammation of the Nose due to an Allergy

Overall rating 4.7

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I take this for seasonal allergies such as sneezing runny nose. I only take it as needed. Luckily for me my allergies are only bad around this time of the year. I try not to take it everyday if I don't need it. I noticed with the 10 mg dose that after 24 hours the effect seems to be wearing off. But I try to space my dose out to 48 hours so I take it every other day. I've read a lot of the reviews with people having various side effects but for me I've never had any problems with itching or having it caused me to have some sort of mental depression or any mental anxiety or any issue like this. The main side effect I noticed from this medication is that it makes me sleepy. For example when I take the dose I'll sleep for at least 8 hours the next day. And then maybe even nap some more the next day. Generally I don't sleep a lot or very well so I don't mind this side effect. I've been using this medicine for more than 10 years. I would tell people that they should be careful with it because it can interact with alcohol and if you take a dose it's still in your body for up to 48 hours from a single dose. I've tried other allergy medications but generally they do not work as well as this one and some of the other medications make me feel sort of well how can I say wired. And they keep me up so I prefer Zyrtec. Another thing I noticed about this medicine is that when I take the tablets it seems to bother my stomach a little bit. I don't have any pain or anything but I noticed some what loose stools. but I've switched to what we call a syrup version that's available in my country and I've noticed that this problem seems a lot less with the syrup that I was with the pills. So anyone who notices the loose stool I would recommend to try to syrup version if it's available for you. I know it's not available everywhere but I really feel like they should make it available. My opinion the syrup is better than the tablet but both work very well for allergy problems especially seasonal allergies. Read More Read Less

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Condition: Non-Seasonal Allergic Runny Nose

Overall rating 3.0

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My child had been taking this daily for 2 years. It had helped with his allergies BUT it also caused side effects such as anxiety, depression and intrusive thoughts. He was a mental mess thanks to this drug.

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Condition: Hives

Overall rating 1.3

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Used this otc because of a tick bite. I was prescribed OTC by my doctor. I was on it for 35 days. I am trying to wean myself off of it. When I don't take it I break out in hives. I now have itchy burning skin headache and it feels like something is crawling on me. This is terrible. I went from 10 mgs to 5 mgs. I am going cold turkey. My itching is awful. I googled the side effects of this OTC and see that a lot of people are having some of the same symptoms.

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Condition: Inflammation of the Nose due to an Allergy

Overall rating 3.7

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I began taking Zyrtec in the spring. It was very effective with relieving my allergy symptoms. I began spotting and bleeding irregularly around the same time. I did not attribute this to the Zyrtec at the time. I stopped Zyrtec over the summer and the spotting and irregular bleeding stopped. I began taking Zyrtec again in the fall when my allergies returned. As soon as I began taking the Zyrtec, I began spotting and bleeding irregularly again. I stopped taking Zyrtec and the spotting stopped. I havenâ??t had this issue since stopping Zyrtec.Read More Read Less

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 1.0

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I have taken Zyrtec off and on. Never consistently until recently trying to remember to take it daily..especially with COVID-19 as I wanted to keep any allergies at bay.... but today I woke up with yellowish eyes. Apparently Zyrtec can cause severe liver problems and jaundice. Yeah.. no thank you. Now to figure out to heal my body from the damage Zyrtec has done.

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 3.0

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Beware - once you start taking Zyrtec regularly, you are likely to experience addiction and be unable to stop it without significant withdrawal side effects. I have noticed that 24-48 hrs after taking Zyrtec, like clockwork, I experience extreme and uncontrollable itching and hives all over my body. (I never suffered from hives in my life until taking this drug.) This, of course, seems like an allergic reaction and makes you take more Zyrtec. I am extremely upset that the potential for significant withdrawal symptoms is not listed as a known drug effect. Johnson Read More Read Less

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 3.0

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I was happy that this product worked on my allergies but it came with a cost. My joints, legs, neck felt like I was 50 yrs older than I am. I walked like an old lady. After reading reviews I stopped taking it. Now I am uncontrollably itching everywhere. My hands, feet, scalp. It's horrible. I also gained 25 pounds on it. I won't be using it again. Nightmare. Gave me nightmares too.

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Condition: Inflammation of the Nose due to an Allergy

Overall rating 2.3

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After being on zyrtec for 3 years I decided to stop taking it to see if I could cope with my year round allergy to just about everything. After being off zyrtec for about 3 days I began getting itchy bumps all over my body and the feeling that I couldn't breathe. I thought I was just having an allergic reaction being hyper sensitive to whatever the medication had been blocking all those years. I decided to wait it out. After suffering for 2 more days my husband did some Internet searching and found to our horror that this was a side effect of the drug. So we went out, bought the smallest amount we could so I could taper off 4 days later still bumps, still itching. It is unbelievable that this information was not given to people and that doctors are pushing it on their patients as mine did. Something needs to be done about this. Thanks to zyrtec I now know how a junkie must feel.Read More Read Less

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Condition: Other

Overall rating 1.0

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When I was first given Zyrtec it was a few years back and at the time I was also on xanax for anxiety so I thought the extra anxiety was just where my xanax wasn't working; well about a week ago I started taking zyrtec again after being off for 2 years. Here's where it gets interesting; my doctor had taken me off xanax the same day I was taken off the zyrtec. So I started again last week and today I woke up with a massive panic attack after feeling depressed for the last few days. Praying this stops. I don't want to be back on xanax again. Read More Read Less

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 3.0

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Used in varying doses for years for allergies and inner ear problems. Did not make any conncetion between this medication and depression/anxiety symptoms. Stopped taking it completely for a while. Felt really good. Didnt think about it being the reason until seasonal alllergies started up again and I suddenly felt really down, anxious and like i wanted to cry. Took one this morning and felt the side effects kick in right away. I will stick to my nose spray. Its too bad because it does work very well. Read More Read Less

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Condition: Inflammation of the Nose due to an Allergy

Overall rating 3.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I've been taking Zyrtec since high school for indoor/outdoor allergies. It was really helpful for my allergies, although I still needed to use a nasal spray to get rid of everything. Anyway, the withdrawal that people are mentioning is REAL. I don't know how or why it isn't anywhere on the packaging, but the itchiness is horrible. I have eczema, and tried to go off of Zyrtec before for an allergy test and had the worst itchiness of my life. For me, the itchiness feels like underneath my skin is itchy. No welts, no hives, just the overall feeling of itch. I went back on it thinking that it was allergies (I live in a major city, where smog, pollen, etc. make those without allergies - have allergies). My allergist also didn't know Zyrtec withdrawal was a "thing" either!! There are some articles out about how to cut down and they work, so I wanted to share it on this forum. You take your Zyrtec, cut it in half, and take a half dose every day for 5-7 days, then you move to taking that half dose every other day for 5-7 days, and then finally quit cold turkey. I did the half dose for a week, and then have stopped taking it. I'm having little to no itchiness (it's also spring allergy season, so that doesn't help - I've been putting local raw honey in my tea and honestly think that's helping), and I hope this helps others come off of this medication. If I had known this I wouldn't have started taking it, but I will be thrilled to finally be done with this drug!Read More Read Less

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 2.7

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I am a nurse who has been taking this for seasonal allergies and I wanted to write my observations on Zyrtec. I noticed depression in mood, weight gain, sluggish bowels and some urinary retention. All my seasonal allergy symptoms did not subside to my satisfaction. When getting off Zyrtec you may experience uncontrollable itching that you didn't have before taking the med, I'll tell you how to get off it without the itch. Start taking 10mg Claritin each night for two nights, then cut Claritin in half to 5mg and take for three more nights then stop taking Claritin, that takes the itch away and Claritin doesn't have the withdrawal itch. Once you stop Claritin and Zyrtec you will quickly lose any weight you gained and mood should improve. Hope that helps.Read More Read Less

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Condition: Allergic Conjunctivitis

Overall rating 3.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I have took zertec for spring allergies and the days that I would have to cut my grass, because I get severe head pressure and pain from the histamine my body would produce. It seemed to work. I didn't take it every day because it is kind of expensive to me. A family member told me I can buy it at The Dollar Tree for a dollar a pack so I bought it and started taking it every day during the spring and fall allergy seasons. I would take it right before I leave the house. I have to drive around to different jobsite for work. But I couldn't drive any more. It was so hard. I was so confused. I could not dare even turn my head, only look straight ahead. I would seem to get better once I finally made it to the job site, and felt ok. Also I was having chest pain or pressure which seemed to be related to constipation.and then my knack started to hurt all the time. Tight and pressure. Also I would fall asleep right after supper every night, about 6 ocklock. It was like I was drunk and passing out. I forgot to take it one Friday and I felt so good, i was normal again..aturday I took it and I was miserable again. So I decided to stop taking zertec and I feel so good . I feel ten years younger. No kneck pain or chest pressure. No confusion. I see more clearly and think more clearly. No more constipation. Zertec is a powerful drug. Be careful. If you take it try stopping for a while. You may forget who you are or were. I did. Read More Read Less

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Condition: Inflammation of the Nose due to an Allergy

Overall rating 2.3

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I am doing this because I am currently trying to get off of zyrtec after taking it daily for many years, as prescribed by my dr. DO NOT TAKE THIS. Withdrawal from this drug is total hell. I don't know how to stop taking it. I cut my pills in half and took that for 2 weeks. Then I started every other day. Now my pills are gone, and I have hives and massive welts all over my body. I feel like my skin is bubbling. It itches and burns so badly. I can't sleep. It's hard to work. I look like a junkie or something. If anyone can help me, please let me know. I no longer have health insurance, and I have a hard time trusting doctors anymore. Read More Read Less

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Condition: Seasonal Runny Nose

Overall rating 1.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

WOW after reading up on this med here ...I quit after 2 pills ! So scary that companies can put product on the market for over the counter use that can do things like people have encountered!

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Zyrtec for children: Safety and side effect information

contents

introduction

You know the symptoms: runny nose, sneezing, itching and watery eyes. When your child has allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as an allergy, you need to find a medication that can certainly ease his discomfort. There are so many allergy medications out there that you can misunderstand which ones are best for your child.

One allergy drug available today is called Zyrtec. Let's take a look at what Zyrtec does, how it works, and how you can safely use it to treat your child's allergy symptoms.

Zyrtec is available in two OTC versions: Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D. Zyrtec comes in five forms, and Zyrtec-D comes in one.

There are many versions and forms, but it is important to know that all forms of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-Da are safe for children of a certain age. However, the two forms of Zyrtec are for children only.

The table below describes the safe age groups for each OTC form of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-Da.

Name Pathway and Forms Condition(s) Age-Safe* Child Allergy Zyrtec: Oral Syrup 5 mg/5 ml 2 years and older Child Allergy Zyrtec: Soluble tablet, 10 mg disintegrating tablet 6 years and older Zyrtec Allergy: tablet 10 mg tablet 6 years and older olderZyrtec Allergy Zyrtec Allergy: Liquid Gel Capsule 10mg6 and older Zyrtec-Dextended-Oral Tablet 10mg, 6mg5 and older

*Note: If your child is younger than the indicated age for the medicine, ask your child's doctor for instructions. They will tell you if you can use allergy medicine for your child and how to use it.

Zyrtec is also available by prescription as an oral syrup. Your doctor can tell you more about the prescription version.

How Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D relieve allergy symptoms

Zyrtec contains the antihistamine cetirizine. Antihistamine blocks a substance in the body called histamine. This substance can cause an allergic reaction when in contact with allergens. By blocking histamine, Zyrtec helps relieve allergy symptoms such as:

runny nose
sneezing
itching or watery eyes
itchy nose or throat

Zyrtec-D contains two drugs: cetirizine and a decongestant called pseudoephedrine. Relieves the same symptoms as Zyrtec, plus other symptoms. Because it contains a decongestant, Zyrtec-D also helps with:

relieve congestion and pressure in your child's sinuses
increase drainage from your child's sinuses

Zyrtec-D is available in the form of long-acting tablets that a child takes by mouth. The tablet releases the medicine slowly into your child's body over 12 hours. Your child should swallow the Zyrtec-D tablet whole. Don't let them spoil or chew it.

Dosage and duration of use of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D

Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D. Dosage data is based on age. Zyrtec should be given to the child one dose per day. Zyrtec-D should be given to the child one dose every 12 hours.

Be sure to avoid giving your child more than the maximum dose indicated on the package. Talk to your doctor to find out how long your child can safely take these medicines.

Side effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-Da

Like most medicines, Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D have some side effects. They also have some warnings. If you have any questions about how these medicines work, ask your child's doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects of Zirtek and Zirtka-da

The total side effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D include:

Pohmia
Dry
Diariya

Zyrtec-Ds

increased heart rate
feeling restless
not feeling tired at bedtime

Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D can also cause serious side effects. Call your child's doctor right away or 911 if your child has serious side effects, which may include:

trouble breathing
trouble swallowing

overdose warning

serious consequences. Overdose symptoms may include:

restlessness
irritability
extreme sleepiness

If you think your child has taken too much of any medicine, call your pediatrician or local poison control center. If your child's symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

If you suspect an overdose

If you or someone you know has an overdose, seek emergency care immediately. Don't wait until your symptoms get worse. If you are in the US, call 911 or the Poisons Department at 800-222-1222. Otherwise, call your local emergency number.
Stay on the line and wait for instructions. If possible, have the following information ready to tell the person on the phone:
• the person's age, height, and weight
• the amount taken
• how long it has been since the last dose was taken the person has any comorbidities
Try to remain calm and keep the casualty awake while you wait for the ambulance. Don't try to pry them out unless a professional tells you to.
You can also get directions from this online tool from the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

drug interactions

An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. Interactions can cause side effects or prevent the drugs from working well.

To prevent an interaction, talk to your child's doctor or pharmacist before taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D. Tell them about any medications, vitamins, or herbs your child is taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs. Some of these substances may interact with Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D.

Talking to your child's doctor or pharmacist is especially important if your child is taking any medicines that have been shown to interact with Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D. Examples of such drugs include:

opiates such as hydrocodone or oxycodone
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (do not use within 2 weeks of taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D)
other antihistamines such as dimenhydrinate, doxylamine, diphenhydramine or loratadine
thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone, or other blood pressure medicines
sedatives, such as zolpidem or temazepam, or drugs that cause drowsiness

Anxiety conditions

Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D may cause health problems use in children with certain medical conditions. Examples of conditions that can lead to problems with Zyrtec include:

liver disease
Diseases of the kidneys

Examples of conditions that can lead to problems with Zyrtec-D, include:

Diabetes
Liver Disease
Problems of heart
Problems with the thyroid gland

Talk to your doctor

Your child's allergies can't be cured, but drugs such as Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D can relieve their symptoms.

If you have questions about these or other allergy medicines, be sure to talk to your child's doctor. They will work with you to find treatments that will help relieve your child's symptoms so that the child can live more comfortably with allergies.

If you want to buy Zyrtec products for children, you can find them here.

instructions for children, dosage, indications and reviews

In the article, we will consider instructions for use for children and reviews for the Zyrtec preparation.

Antihistamines actively used in pediatric practice include this medication. But no drug can be universal, and therefore it is very important to understand the features of the correct use of Zirtek drops for young patients.

Description

The drug is a representative of a new generation of antihistamines that has been produced in the pharmaceutical industry for a long time - more than thirty years.

The drug has long proved its effectiveness, as well as tablets. As the instructions indicate, "Zirtek" for children successfully copes independently with various kinds of allergic effects, but a particularly noticeable result can be achieved only in complex treatment, in combination with other groups of medicines. To a greater extent, this statement is true in the problem of treating bronchial asthma.

Several studies have shown that when Zyrtec is included in the treatment course for this disease, the symptoms of the latter are significantly alleviated. In addition, the drug is used for viral infections (for example, with chickenpox or the Epstein-Barr virus) and for the symptomatic treatment of skin inflammation of various origins and itching. However, despite the extensive list of useful characteristics of the drug, it should not be given to children on their own, without medical prescription. Although no study describes a negative effect on a small organism, the drug can be used only according to indications and only after examination.

Pharmacological action

According to the instructions, Zyrtec for children is an antihistamine that blocks histamine h2 receptors. As a result, this biologically active substance is not able to act on organs and tissues; accordingly, allergic symptoms do not develop. The drug contributes to the accelerated restoration of the walls of blood vessels, which reduces their permeability, eliminates itching and swelling, and also positively affects the antioxidant system of the human body. There is no bronchoconstrictor effect, it does not affect lung volume, which makes it possible to use it for children with bronchial asthma.

Both drops and tablets are highly bioavailable, which means that they are absorbed almost completely from the gastrointestinal tract. The highest concentration of a drug of any form in the blood is reached after an hour ± 30 minutes, but, judging by the reviews of doctors and allergy sufferers, its effect begins in twenty minutes. The drug is excreted by the kidneys. The elimination half-life in children is: three hours - from six months to two years; five hours - from two to six years; six hours - from six to twelve years.

Forms of production and composition

The Russian pharmacological market presents such forms of the drug as tablets and drops. In both cases, the active ingredient is cetirizine. The whole difference lies only in the auxiliary components.

The formulation of Zyrtec syrup for children with instructions for use is not commercially available.

When is it applicable?

The instructions for Zyrtec for children indicate the conditions under which this medicine is prescribed.

Effective for seasonal rhinitis, hay fever, conjunctivitis and other allergic conditions caused by house dust, plant pollen, animal hair, accompanied by severe nasal discharge, sneezing, severe itching and watery eyes. A distinctive feature of this drug is effective penetration into the thickness of the skin, eliminating redness and itching in a short time period.

What are the indications for Zyrtec for children?

Helps with allergic reactions that occur due to insect bites. It is suitable for the treatment of food allergies.

According to the instructions, Zyrtec tablets for children are effective in allergic dermatoses, Quincke's edema and urticaria.

The drug is included in the therapeutic course for children who suffer from obstructive bronchitis and bronchial asthma.

"Zyrtec" is prescribed as an anti-inflammatory agent for sinusitis, bronchitis, colds, tonsillitis, viral infections and other diseases.

Instructions for "Zyrtec" for children

Children's dosage is a very delicate issue, and it does not matter what kind of drug it is. It is very important not to cause intoxication, addiction or allergies, not to harm the child's body. A significant advantage of the drug is that it does not increase tolerance and does not cause addiction in the patient. In other words, "Zirtek" is valid for as long as it is given to children. For smooth treatment without overdose, side effects and other troubles, you need to follow the instructions exactly and know the dosage for the child well.

Drops

Zyrtec drops, according to the instructions, should not be given to children from birth.

First of all, it should be said that drops can be given to a baby from six months, and in the form of tablets - from six years. Do not give the drug to a newborn or a month old baby. How is Zyrtec taken, how many drops does a child need to achieve the desired effect? The age of the patient affects the dosage:

2.5 milligrams (5 drops) once a day - 6-12 months.
2.5 milligrams twice a day - when children are 1 year old. Instructions for use for "Zirtek" confirms this. This dosage is maintained until the age of 6 years of the child.
Five milligrams twice a day - 6-12 years.
Ten milligrams once a day - over twelve years of age.

Tablets

Patients after six years of age are allowed to drink tablets, in which case the following dosing regimen:

five milligrams (half a tablet) twice a day - 6-12 years;
ten milligrams (whole tablet) once a day - after twelve years.

It is necessary to focus on the presence of renal pathology in the child (the dosage in this case should be adjusted depending on the patient's body weight and kidney condition), prematurity and cases of drug allergy.

Very often pharmacies ask for Zyrtec syrup for children. The instruction indicates that there is no such form of release.

Subtleties of drug use in pediatrics

There are a number of common questions to consider regarding the way the drug is administered. The duration of the treatment course is determined only by the allergist. Therapy can be short-term (even used once) and long-term - up to several months.

Zyrtec may be diluted with water or added to the mixture, but these recommendations are not mandatory.

If the patient takes the medicine well, then it can be given "in pure form". But the drug has a specific feature: a bitter taste and a sharp aroma of vinegar. That is why babies may refuse to take the drug (persuasions of the child during the crisis of three years can become especially difficult). In this case, you can add the drug to drink and food. It does not matter if the medication is taken with respect to food: it is allowed to drink it, including during meals. The presence of food does not affect the amount of absorption of the drug, only the speed. If you need to get a quick effect, it is better to give the drug on an empty stomach. If speed does not matter (for example, during treatment with a course), then there is no dependence on food intake.

That's what the instructions say. Drops "Zirtek" for children from birth should not be used, only when they reach 6 months this can be done.

Is it permissible to give medicine before going to bed at night? Does Zyrtec make babies feel sleepy? It can also be given at night if the child develops drowsiness after using it (this side symptom appears in about ten percent of cases when the child sleeps from the drug). In this case, it is more than justified. Before vaccination, the drug is given according to the age norm, in the morning on the same day, no later than an hour and a half before it is carried out.

Side effects

According to the instructions for use for Zyrtec for children in tablets and drops, the drug is safe. But this does not exclude the appearance of such side effects as drowsiness, convulsive syndrome, fatigue, increased appetite, loose stools, dry mouth, rhinitis, increased heart rate, itchy rash, loss of vision clarity, anaphylaxis, urticaria. In a child, vomiting after using Zirtek is not fixed, and if it does, it serves as a reason for additional examination of the digestive system or a symptom of individual sensitivity to the drug.

It is very important to follow the dosage and instructions for "Zirtek" for children in drops and tablets.

Overdose

The development of an overdose is possible with a single use of 50 milligrams of the drug, and is manifested by: agitation, anxiety or drowsiness, confusion, diarrhea; stupor; urinary retention, itching, headache and diarrhea. It is urgent to call an ambulance, wash the stomach and drink an enterosorbent. The drug can be stored for no more than five years at temperatures up to 25 ° C in places where access to animals and young patients is limited.

Which of the drugs is better: Zodak or Zyrtec

Often, mothers whose children suffer from allergic reactions ask which of the analogs is better - Zyrtec or Zodak?

Zyrtec is produced by a pharmaceutical company from Switzerland and manufactured there, as well as in Italy and Belgium.

"Zodak" - medicine from the Czech Republic. When creating these drugs, various technologies are used.

Both Zyrtec and Zodak are antihistamines. Their main influence is aimed at suppressing receptors that are sensitive to histamine, which is released in large quantities under the influence of a foreign component.

"Zodak" or "Zirtek" - which is better? In both medicines, the active ingredient is cyterizine, an antihistamine. Indications for its use are allergic diseases. Both drugs are produced in the form of tablets and drops. Same dosing method.

Although the drugs have the same active ingredients, they differ in their composition. This must be taken into account, since the child's body can react differently to different substances.

The essential difference between "Zodak" and "Zirtek" is the cost, with a difference of several times. However, you still need to remember that Zodak is inherently an analogue, that is, a drug that can replace Zirtek.

Reviews

In their reviews, many mothers say that Zirtek is a fairly reliable and effective antiallergic drug that quickly eliminates pathological signs in young patients. Pediatricians advise using the drug before vaccinations, as the reviews note that the frequency of allergic reactions caused by vaccination is much less.

This drug is excellent for infectious and inflammatory diseases - for acute respiratory viral infections, colds, bronchitis and tonsillitis. "Zirtek", having an anti-inflammatory effect, quickly eliminates the main manifestations, congestion, and reduces pain. It is noted that the inclusion of the drug in the therapeutic course increases the overall effectiveness of the treatment. Negative manifestations are noted in rare cases.

What are zyrtec side effects

Zyrtec Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

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How to use Zyrtec

Side Effects

Precautions

Interactions

Overdose

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT USER-GENERATED CONTENT ON WEBMD

Zyrtec for children: Safety and side effect information

introduction

How Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D relieve allergy symptoms

Dosage and duration of use of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D

Side effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-Da

Side effects of Zirtek and Zirtka-da

overdose warning

If you suspect an overdose

drug interactions

Anxiety conditions

Talk to your doctor

instructions for children, dosage, indications and reviews

Description

Pharmacological action

Forms of production and composition

When is it applicable?

Instructions for "Zyrtec" for children

Drops

Tablets

Subtleties of drug use in pediatrics

Side effects

Overdose

Which of the drugs is better: Zodak or Zyrtec

Reviews