Let's learn more about Cetirizine, a pill used for allergies. (Cetirizine)

For many of us, "allergic" has become a very common thing now, hasn't it? As soon as a little dust gets on our body, we start itching all over. For some, when they wake up in the morning, they start sneezing, their nose runs like water. Their eyes become red and teary. Cetirizine is a medicine that many of us know and use at times like this. So today, let's talk about what Cetirizine is, how to use it, and what important things we need to know about it.

Simply put, what is Cetirizine?

Cetirizine is a medicine used to prevent and treat allergy symptoms. Imagine that you are allergic to something (such as dust, pollen, or certain foods) and your body's immune system produces a chemical called histamine to fight the foreign substance.

This histamine is what actually causes all the allergic symptoms like itching, hives, runny nose, sneezing, and red eyes.

So, this medicine called Cetirizine, or what we commonly call it, is an 'antihistamine' . What this medicine does is stop the action of that histamine. It blocks it. Then those uncomfortable allergic symptoms gradually decrease. Do you understand?

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before a doctor prescribes this medicine for you, it is very important to give him a complete description of your health condition. Because some medical conditions require caution when using this medicine. Be sure to mention these points in particular:

• If you have kidney disease .
• If you have liver disease .
• If you have previously been allergic to Cetirizine, Hydroxyzine, or any other medicine, food, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or expecting a baby.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or whether the dosage needs to be changed.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

The method of using this medicine is very simple.

• This pill should be taken orally with a glass of water.
• You can take this before or after meals. It doesn't make much difference.
• The most important thing is to take the right dose at the right time. Don't take more than your doctor tells you to. Usually, you'll be prescribed one pill a day.
• Sometimes you may need to continue taking this medicine for a few days to get better, so don't stop taking it just because you don't feel better after one day.

If you give it to children...

If you are giving this medicine to children, you should be especially careful. Although it is prescribed for children over 6 years of age for some conditions, you should definitely talk to your doctor about it and give him the dosage he recommends.

What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)

If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I 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 (for example, within a few hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

Other things that may interact with Cetirizine

Some medications and drinks can interact with Cetirizine and cause side effects such as increased drowsiness. So be aware of these things:

• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking cetirizine can greatly increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Some medications for anxiety or sleep.
• Some strong painkillers (e.g. Narcotic medications for pain such as Tramadol).
• Medicines for colds or other allergies.

Things to keep in mind when taking this medicine

• Drowsiness and dizziness: Some people may feel drowsy or dizzy when taking this medication. Therefore, avoid activities that require high alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
• Elderly people should be careful: Especially if you are elderly, be careful when getting up from a sitting or standing position suddenly. This will reduce the chance of dizziness and falling.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth is also common. Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water can help. If this problem persists or is severe, talk to your doctor.
• Symptoms: If your allergy symptoms do not subside, inform your doctor about that as well.

Possible side effects of Cetirizine

Like any medicine, Cetirizine can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. The table below will help you understand this more clearly.

Cetirizine, allergic, allergy, antihistamine, piriton, drowsiness, skin rash, itching