Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Cetirizine is employed to provide temporary relief from allergies to pollen, dust, or airborne substances, as well as reactions to other allergens like dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches, and molds. These symptoms encompass sneezing, a runny nose, itchy and red eyes, and an itchy nose or throat. Cetirizine belongs to the antihistamine class of medications and operates by inhibiting the effects of histamine, a substance in the body responsible for allergic manifestations.
Uses and Dosage
Cetirizine is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, extended-release tablets, and syrup, all designed for oral consumption. Typically, it is taken once a day, with or without food, and it is advisable to maintain a consistent daily schedule.
Follow the prescribed dosage precisely; avoid taking more or less than recommended, and refrain from exceeding the frequency indicated on the label or as advised by your doctor.
Do not utilize cetirizine for treating hives that are bruised, blistered, display unusual colors, or lack the itching sensation. Consult your doctor if you encounter such types of hives.
In case your hives do not show improvement within the initial 3 days of treatment or persist for over 6 weeks, discontinue cetirizine and contact your doctor. If the cause of your hives is unknown, seek medical advice.
For individuals using cetirizine to address hives, if you experience difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing, swelling around the mouth or of the tongue, wheezing, drooling, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical assistance immediately. These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. If your doctor anticipates the risk of anaphylaxis with your hives, they might prescribe an epinephrine injector (EpiPen). Do not substitute cetirizine for the epinephrine injector in such situations.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- drowsiness
- excessive tiredness
- dry mouth
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
- Prior to taking cetirizine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to cetirizine itself, hydroxyzine, levocetirizine, or any other substances. It’s important to note that this product might contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before commencing the use of this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of difficulty urinating, kidney disease, or liver disease.
- If you are using cetirizine to address hives, promptly notify your doctor if you experience additional symptoms, as they could signify a more severe condition. These symptoms may include hives with unusual colors, a bruised or blistered appearance, or hives that lack itching.
- Be aware that this medication may induce drowsiness. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify drowsiness. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Liquid formulations of cetirizine may contain sugar, so exercise caution if you have diabetes. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on using this product safely.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if it is clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Zyrtec Syrup is available in the following forms and strengths:
- cetirizine syrup:
- 1 mg / mL
FAQ
Will Zyrtec Syrup make me sleepy?
The most common side effect of Zyrtec Syrup is feeling sleepy and tired. This happens in more than 1 in 10 people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if this side effect bothers you or does not go away.
How long does Zyrtec Syrup take to work?
You should start to feel better within an hour of taking this medication.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/cetirizine/#:~:text=everyone%20gets%20them.-,Common%20side%20effects,or%20does%20not%20go%20away
- https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00341
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12127/zyrtec-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a623043.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/zyrtec-syrup.html
