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.
|
