Do you also constantly itch? Do you get red bumps on your skin? Do you get a runny nose and can't stop sneezing when you wake up in the morning? Allergic conditions like this are very common in our country. So when you go to see a doctor at a time like this, you may have been given a medicine called Cetirizine. Perhaps you have been given a tablet that dissolves in your mouth. So today, let's talk about this medicine called Cetirizine, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What exactly is Cetirizine?
Simply put, Cetirizine is a medication that is used to control allergy symptoms. Let's understand this in a little more detail.
Think of our body as a fortress. When something invades this fortress, such as an allergen (for example, dust, pollen, certain foods, or an insect sting), our body's defense system kicks in. At this point, our body produces a chemical called histamine .
This histamine is responsible for many allergic symptoms, such as itching, hives, red eyes, runny nose, and sneezing.
Cetirizine blocks the action of histamine. That's why we call this type of medicine an antihistamine . When histamine stops working, allergic symptoms gradually decrease.
Important things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Cetirizine, it is important to give you a complete description of your health. You should especially mention any of the following conditions:
| Your situation | The doctor must be informed - why? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | This medicine is mostly eliminated from the body through the kidneys. So if your kidneys are not working properly, you may need to change your dose or use a different medicine. |
| Liver disease | Liver function also affects the way this medication is processed in the body. Therefore, it is important to inform your doctor about this as well. |
| Allergies to other medications or substances | If you have previously had an allergy to medications such as Cetirizine, Hydroxyzine, or any other medicine, food, or preservative, be sure to tell us about it. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Any medication during pregnancy should only be taken on the advice of a doctor. So tell him or her about your condition. |
| If a mother is breastfeeding her child | This medication can pass to the baby through breast milk. Therefore, if you are a breastfeeding mother, talk to your doctor to decide what is best for you. |
How do you use the mouthwash correctly?
This is not a pill that you swallow with water like a regular pill. This is a special pill that is designed to disintegrate in the mouth. So here's how to use it:
1. Keep the pill in the sealed blister pack until you are ready to take it.
2. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. If you touch the tablet with wet hands, it may start to dissolve.
3. Carefully open the blister pack and take out the pill.
4. If the tablet breaks or crumbles, throw it away and get a new one.
5. Place the tablet on your tongue. It will start to dissolve in your saliva within a few seconds.
6. Swallow after it has completely dissolved. This does not require any water , but you can drink a little water if you want.
Important: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with others.
Can this medicine be given to children?
For children over 6 years of age, the doctor may prescribe this medicine for some allergic conditions. But it should be given exactly as the doctor says. Do not give this medicine to young children without consulting the doctor.
What do you do if you forget to take your medicine?
It is common for people to miss a dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
- Drowsiness: Some people may feel drowsy or dizzy when taking this medicine. This does not happen to everyone, but it is possible. Therefore, do not do anything that requires a lot of attention, such as driving a car or operating machinery, until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking cetirizine can make you feel more sleepy. Therefore, it is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
- Other medications: Tell your doctor if you are taking sleeping pills, tranquilizers, pain relievers (especially narcotics), or other cold/allergy medications. These can increase drowsiness when combined with Cetirizine.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is also a common side effect of this medication. This can be controlled by chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water. However, if this problem persists or is severe, talk to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, Cetirizine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor or hospital immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions | Severe skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing. These can occur very rarely but are very dangerous. |
| Side effects that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Drowsiness | You may feel it until your body gets used to the medicine. |
| Dizziness | Especially when sitting down from standing or standing up from sitting. |
| Dry mouth | Drinking water can provide relief. |
| Fatigue | Feeling tired in the body. |
Take-Home Message
- Cetirizine is an antihistamine that controls allergy symptoms (itching, hives, sneezing).
- When using a disintegrating tablet, hold it with your bare hands and place it on your tongue. No water is needed.
- Some people may feel drowsy when taking this medication. Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, for the first few days.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and traditional medicines you are taking.
- If you experience a severe allergic reaction (such as swelling of the face, throat), seek medical advice immediately.
- Always use the medicine according to the dosage and duration prescribed by your doctor.
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