Do you often get allergies? Do you have symptoms like a runny nose , sneezing, red, itchy eyes, or a rash? At times like these, a doctor may have prescribed you a medication called Cetirizine. This medication can come under different brand names (for example, Zyrtec). So, today we'll talk about what Cetirizine is, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
What kind of medicine is Cetirizine?
Simply put, Cetirizine is a medicine for allergies. When something you are allergic to enters our body, our body cells release a chemical called 'Histamine' . This histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, such as itchy eyes, aching body, runny nose, and sneezing.
Cetirizine works by blocking the action of this histamine. That's why we call this type of medicine an 'antihistamine' . By controlling histamine in this way, your annoying allergy symptoms will gradually decrease.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start taking Cetirizine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them about the following:
| Information you need to provide | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have liver or kidney disease. | These organs are the organs through which the medication is eliminated from the body. So if these are not working well, the doctor may have to change the dosage of the medication. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to Cetirizine, Hydroxyzine, or any other medicine, food , or dye. | This is essential to prevent serious allergies. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby . | It is very important to seek medical advice when using any medication during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother . | Some medications can pass to the baby through breast milk, so it is essential to inform the doctor about this. |
How should I use this medicine?
Since this is a chewable tablet, you should chew it thoroughly and swallow it with a glass of water. Do not swallow the tablet whole. Use only the prescribed dose as prescribed by your doctor. You can take this medicine before or after meals. You may need to continue taking the medicine for a few days until your symptoms improve.
When given to small children...
Special care should be taken when giving this medicine to children. Do not give this medicine to children without the advice of a doctor, as the dosage varies depending on the child's age and weight.
Attention: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine has been prescribed for you only, do not share it with others.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose. Doing so may increase the amount of medicine you take.
Other things that may interact with Cetirizine (Interactions)
Cetirizine can interact with some things, so tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
- Alcohol: Taking Cetirizine with alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
- Medications for anxiety or sleep: These medications also cause drowsiness, so taking them with Cetirizine may increase the effect.
- Some narcotic medications for pain: These also increase drowsiness.
- Other cold or allergy medications: Since these medications may also contain antihistamines, there is a risk of overdose.
This list is not complete. Tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, and herbs you are taking.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- Drowsiness and dizziness: You may feel drowsy or dizzy when taking this medicine. Therefore , do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Be careful, especially if you are elderly, as you may feel dizzy and fall when standing up or sitting down too quickly.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is common. You can reduce this by chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking more water. If this problem persists, tell your doctor.
- Symptoms: If your symptoms are not improving, talk to your doctor about that as well.
Possible side effects
Like any medicine, Cetirizine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, while others are common.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Serious allergic reactions | If you experience symptoms such as hives, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, it could be a serious condition. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome. | |
| Drowsiness | This is a common side effect. |
| Dizziness | This is also common. |
| Dry mouth | Drinking water can provide relief. |
| Fatigue | If these symptoms persist or interfere with your daily activities, talk to your doctor. |
How should you store the medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Do not store in high humidity areas, such as the bathroom.
- Dispose of expired medication immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Cetirizine is a chewable tablet used for allergies. It should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have (especially liver and kidney disease) and any other medications you are taking.
- This medicine may make you drowsy, so be very careful if you drive or operate machinery.
- If you experience serious allergic symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions, ask your doctor. Do not self-medicate.
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