Do you also sneeze often? Do you have a runny nose? Or is your nose blocked and it's hard to breathe? With red, itchy eyes, this allergy can be a real pain. For symptoms like these, a doctor may prescribe a medicine that contains a combination of Cetirizine and Pseudoephedrine. Today, we'll talk about this medicine, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
This is a combination of two medications. Think of it like two friends working together.
1. Cetirizine: This is an antihistamine . When we have an allergy, our body produces a chemical called histamine. This histamine is responsible for the sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and itchy skin. So, what cetirizine does is block the action of histamine.
2. Pseudoephedrine: This is a decongestant . Simply put, it is a medicine that reduces nasal congestion. When you have an allergy or a cold, the blood vessels inside your nose swell, causing your nose to become congested. Pseudoephedrine works by reducing that swelling and making it easier to breathe.
So when these two are combined, many allergy symptoms are relieved at once. This is very well known under the name Zyrtec-D.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor.
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma, a disease of increased eye pressure
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Difficulty urinating or prostate problems
- Thyroid disease
- If you have taken an MAOI (a type of antidepressant) within the past 14 days .
- If you have had an allergic reaction to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, pseudoephedrine, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor this information without hiding it.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
Swallow this tablet whole with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew the tablet. These are made for 'extended-release' use, meaning the medicine is released into the body over time. If you break the tablet, the medicine is more likely to be absorbed into the body at once and cause side effects.
This is usually taken every 12 hours. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time. It doesn't matter if you take it before or after meals. Do not take more than the prescribed dose for any reason.
What if you give it to children?
This medicine is usually prescribed for children over 12 years of age for certain conditions. However, special care is needed if this is given to a child. Therefore, always consult your doctor before giving it to a child.
For those over 60 years old?
Older people may feel the effects of this medicine a little stronger. Therefore, a lower dose may be prescribed. If you feel dizzy, do not stand up or sit down suddenly.
Overdose
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss 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 two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
Some medications can cause problems when taken with this one. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines).
| Drug type | Description |
|---|---|
| Drugs that should absolutely not be taken (Absolutely Avoid) | |
| MAOI-type drugs | A type of medication used to treat depression. Do not take Cetirizine/Pseudoephedrine for 14 days after stopping these. |
| Other antihistamines | Medicines for coughs, colds, and other allergies. |
| Ergot Alkaloids | Eg: ergotamine. Some medications given for migraines. |
| Medicines that should be taken with caution on medical advice (Use with Caution) | |
| Alcohol | Excessively increases drowsiness and dizziness. |
| Digoxin | A medicine for heart disease. |
| Some antibiotics | Ex: Erythromycin, Linezolid |
| Mental health medications | Medicines for depression, anxiety, or sleep. |
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone does.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly. |
| Nervous system problems | Severe dizziness, restlessness, insomnia, seizures, tremor. |
| Other serious symptoms | Difficulty breathing, vision changes, eye pain, difficulty urinating. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dry mouth | Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking water may help. |
| Drowsiness/fatigue | Do not drive until you know how this medicine affects you. |
| Headache | - |
| Loss of appetite, nausea | - |
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius), away from moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
- Throw away expired medications.
Take-Home Message
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and any other medicines you are taking.
- Swallow this tablet whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing.
- Taking the medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
- If you experience serious side effects such as rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or body aches, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
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