Zyrtec DRUG INFO
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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