Cetirizine is an OTC drug that allows for the treatment of mild to moderate allergies. Cetirizine is an allergy drug that you can buy without a prescription (OTC) in a pharmacy. Also, it doesn’t require a prescription. Cetirizine is available in both capsule and tablet form.
You take it once a day, and the medication’s effect is fast. The medication helps with the treatment of colds and allergic symptoms such as itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Generally, cetirizine is a safe and effective drug, but you should be aware of specific warnings and precautions when taking this drug. Learn how this drug works, what it’s used for, and how to take it safely.
- What Is Cetirizine, and Why Is It Used?
Cetirizine is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it is one of the over-the-counter antihistamine medications. This drug may be used as a treatment for annual or seasonal allergic and vasomotor rhinitis (inflammation of the membranes of the nose not caused by an allergy).
Besides that, this medication can help treat cold symptoms and additional ailments such as angioedema, urticaria (hives), pruritus, anaphylactic reactions, and allergic conjunctivitis.
Cetirizine acts by inhibiting the production of a natural element (named histamine) by the body during an allergic process. It inhibits the production of histamine and belongs to a class of antihistamines.
2. What Is The Dosage Of Cetirizine?
Adults and kids aged 6 years and older can take cetirizine tablets and capsules. The standard dose of the drug for adults younger than 65 years and older children who are 6 years old and older is one 10-milligram (mg) dose per day.
You shouldn’t take more than 10 mg per 24 hours. Your doctor can choose 5 mg to take once or twice a day if your allergies are mild.
Talk to your doctor about dosage for:
- Children range in age from 2 to 6 years old.
- who are over 65 years old
- suffer from liver or renal disease
3. Cetirizine Side Effects
Cetirizine is a newer so-called “second-generation” antihistamine. In contrast to first-generation antihistamines, cetirizine is not so likely to cause adverse side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and overheating.
Some of the possible side effects that one must be aware of are:
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- extreme tiredness
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- Vomiting
It is essential to discuss any unexpected side effects you have regarding taking Cetirizine with your doctor. Also, discuss any ongoing or worrying side effects you still experience. These effects usually do not indicate any emergencies.
Warnings and Precautions Associated With Cetirizine Here are a few points to note before you take Cetirizine:
4. Be cautious while using machinery.
Although cetirizine rarely causes drowsiness, some people tend to respond to it differently, especially in the initial doses. Hence, you must be attentive. Avoid driving vehicles or operating machinery before fully understanding the effect cetirizine can have on your body.
5. Pregnant and lactating mothers must consult before taking:
For safe use of Cetirizine, consult your physician or healthcare provider in case you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or taking care of your pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, you also need to consult your doctor or physician. Cetirizine is generally safe during pregnancy; however, it is wise to check with your doctor.
6. Check the ingredients:
Don’t use cetirizine if you have had any allergies to it or any of the ingredients in it. Additionally, if you have any allergies concerning antihistamines that contain hydroxyzine, avoid cetirizine.
7. Talk with your doctor if you have some specific conditions:
If you have liver disease or kidney disease, consult your doctor before taking Cetirizine. If your doctor thinks you can take it safely, they may advise taking less than the usual dosage.
Possible Interactions with Cetirizine Tablets
There are chances that cetirizine tablets may interact with other medications or substances. For instance, drinking alcoholic drinks while taking Cetirizine is not advisable. That may be dangerous. Combining cetirizine and alcohol can lead to drowsiness or a loss of alertness.
If you happen to use any sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleep aids, tell your doctor before you take Cetirizine. They can induce sleepiness on top of the drowsy effect of cetirizine. Apart from that, it can influence your mind and nervous system negatively.
There is a risk of a drug-related interaction between cetirizine and theophylline. Theophylline (Theo-24) is a drug given to people with lung problems or asthma. Hence, consult your doctor before taking the medication.
8. How Do I Take the Cetirizine Tablet?
If you are taking the OTC product yourself, please read all the product package directions before taking this medication. If you have any further questions, please
Consult your pharmacist. If your doctor prescribes you to take the medication, follow the instructions by your doctor and take it as long and as often as prescribed, usually once daily.
If you are using chewable tablets, chew each tablet carefully before swallowing them. In the case of the rapidly-dissolving tablet, let the tablet dissolve in the mouth to swallow, with or without water.
When you are using the liquid form of this drug, measure the dosage accurately using a specific measuring tool or spoon. Do not use a household spoon because it can be challenging to get an accurate dose.
The dosage will depend on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase the dose or take this medicine more often than prescribed.
If your allergy symptoms do not respond to the treatment within a reasonable period, or your hives do not clear up after being treated for 3 days, or if your hives last more than 6 weeks, inform your doctor. Please seek medical attention immediately if your condition worsens or you feel you have a serious medical problem (for instance, severe anaphylaxis).
Conclusion
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In cases of overdose and severe side effects like challenges breathing or passing out, get medical assistance. To know more about the safety, efficacy, dosage, and interactions of this medication, it is always advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist.
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