How to Use the Drug Zyrtec

Zyrtec is a brand name for the generic medication cetirizine. It is a drug prescribed for allergies, the common cold and hay fever. Like many other drugs in the same category, Zyrtec works to reduce the amount of natural histamine that accumulates in the body. When histamine builds up, it produces certain symptoms that are commonly attributed to those illnesses like itching skin, runny nose and watery eyes. However, Zyrtec is often a preferred medication because it is nonsedating.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make a doctor's appointment to determine if Zyrtec is the right medication for you. Use a physician who is familiar with your medical history or one who does the appropriate pretesting before prescribing the medication.

2. Note the drug's various liabilities. Zytec is not recommended for those with kidney or liver problems or for women who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant while taking the drug. Likewise, the medication is ill-advised for women who are breastfeeding since the drug's effects can be passed to the child through the mother's milk.

3. Make yourself aware of the drug's interaction issues. Zyrtec can increase the reaction of certain types of drugs like those prescribed for seizures to relax muscles, to kill pain or to aid in sleep. It is also not recommended for those taking anti-anxiety drugs or any type of psychiatric medications. Avoid drinking alcohol with the drug since it amplifies the effects of the medication.

4. Prepare for the drug's typical side effects like constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache and nausea. Report any extended experiences of any of those symptoms.

5. Watch for less-typical side effects like anxiety, depression, dizziness, fatigue, inability to think clearly, restlessness, slowed reaction time, sore throat, tremors and unexplained cough. Call your physician and make him aware of the problems so he can adjust the medication as needed.

6. Go to the emergency room if you experience any of these dangerous side effects: blurred vision, difficulty breathing, hives, irregular heartbeat, rash, unexplained swelling in the mouth or throat, sleeplessness, urine retention, vomiting or yellowing of the eyes or skin. Do not drive or operate heavy or dangerous equipment while under the influence of Zyrtec.

7. Determine the type of Zyrtec prescribed and follow doctor's orders as indicated on the bottle label. The medication comes in a standard pill, a chewable tablet and a liquid in 5 and 10 mg doses. Chewable tablets must be chewed before swallowing, since swallowing a tablet whole might negate its effectiveness. Liquid medications usually come with a special measuring tool to make certain an overdose doesn't take place. Generally, Zyrtec can be taken with or without food; however, your doctor may advise one or the other.

8. Store the drug at normal room temperature. Keep it away from sources of extreme cold or heat.

9. Report an overdose to the Poison Control Center at 1 [phone] if you cannot get to an emergency room quickly. Otherwise, report there as quickly as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• The drug is at its peak point within a couple of hours after taking it. Its effects can last as long as 28 to 30 hours. For more information on the drug, consult the Physician's Desk Reference or refer the websites noted below.
• Do not take another person's prescribed medicine. It could cause dangerous effects or even be lethal in extreme cases. Do not take additional dosages of medication or extend the use of the drug beyond the recommended amount of time. Do not double dose if you forget to take the medication. Just wait until time for the next dose.

Resources

• Drugs.com: Zyrtec
• RX List: Zyrtec

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