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

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