Zyrtec Syrup (Cetirizine)

What is Zyrtec Syrup?

Zyrtec is an antihistamine. The active component present in the drug, cetirizine hydrochloride, is an orally active and selective H₁–receptor antagonist.

What is Zyrtec Syrup used for?

Zyrtec is used to treat or prevent cold or allergy symptoms like itching, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, etc. It is also indicated for the treatment of swelling and itching caused by chronic urticaria (hives). However, the drug does not prevent or treat hives.

How does Zyrtec Syrup work?

Zyrtec works by reducing the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine is responsible for producing cold or allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing (from hay fever), itching or watery eyes.

How to use Zyrtec Syrup

Zyrtec should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken by mouth, once daily, with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

If you are using chewable tablets, then chew the tablets well before swallowing it. However, if you are taking the medicine in liquid form, make sure that the liquid medicine is measured with a special dose measuring cup or spoon (not a regular table spoon).

Zyrtec Syrup warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic to cetirizine or hydroxyzine. Prior to taking Zyrtec, tell your doctor if you are suffering from a kidney or liver disease.

While you are on Zyrtec dose, avoid drinking alcohol or performing activities that require alertness such as driving.

Tell your doctor if you take medicines that cause drowsiness such as cold or allergy medicines, sleeping pills, narcotic pain medicine, medicine for depression, seizure or anxiety.

Zyrtec is not expected to be harmful to an unborn child. However, pregnant women should consult their doctors before taking the drug. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. You might need a dose adjustment. Cetirizine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Thus, lactating women must not use this medicine without consulting their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Zyrtec Syrup dose?

If you have missed your Zyrtec dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Zyrtec Syrup overdose?

If you have taken a Zyrtec overdose you should seek medical attention.

Zyrtec Syrup interactions

Before taking Zyrtec, tell you doctor about all prescription and nonprescription drugs that you use, including those causing drowsiness, such as anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), medicines for anxiety or sleep (e.g., alprazolam, zolpidem, diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., risperidone, amitriptyline, chlorpromazine, trazodone), and muscle relaxants. Also, do not use any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Zyrtec Syrup side effects

Zyrtec side effects include hives; breathing difficulty; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat and other allergic reactions.

Fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, weakness, insomnia, confusion, hyperactivity, severe restless feeling, problems with vision, and decreased frequency of urination are also side effects from Zyrtec. If you get any of these side effects after using Zyrtec, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor.

Nausea, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, tired feeling, cough, sore throat, and constipation are some less serious side effects of Zyrtec.