Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: cetirizine
BRAND NAME: Zyrtec
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Cetirizine is the fourth
addition to a
new generation of allergy medications called "non-
sedating"
antihistamines or histamine (H-1) receptor blockers. These new
antihistamines are called non-sedating because they cause
less
sedation than their predecessors; however, cetirizine is more
sedating than the other non-sedating antihistamines.
Antihistamines block the effects of histamines. Histamines
cause
symptoms of allergy when released by allergic reactions in the
body.
Antihistamines block the ability of histamine to promote the
allergy
symptoms. For further information, please read the
Allergic Rhinitis article.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: 5mg and 10mg oral tablets.
STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 15-30 degrees C (59-
86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Cetirizine is used by people who
suffer
from allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itchy nose (allergic
rhinitis)
and itchy eyes. It also has been used to treat hives.
DOSING: Cetirizine should be taken at doses
specifically
directed
by a physician. Cetirizine can be taken with food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Cetirizine should be taken only in
doses
prescribed. Increasing the dose can be dangerous. When
taking
cetirizine with theophylline the dose of theophylline may need to
be
reduced. Cetirizine occasionally can cause sleepiness .
Cetirizine can be
taken with erythromycin or ketaconazole without the increased
risk of
heart irregularities common to other non-sedating
antihistamines. Cetirizine also can be used to treat children.
SIDE EFFECTS: Sleepiness occurs in 14% of patients.
Dry mouth,
nausea, headache, fatigue, jitteriness and sore throat are
infrequently
reported with cetirizine.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 3/8/1999
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Hives - Read about hives (urticaria) causes (allergy, stress), rash symptoms (skin welts, raised red itchy bumps) and treatment. Dermatographism and swelling (angioedema) may accompany hives.
- loratadine, Claritin, Claritin RediTabs, Alavert, others - Learn about loratadine (Claritin, Alavert), a drug used for the relief seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms and hives. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
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