Cetirizine (Zyrtec) belongs to a class of allergy medications called antihistamines or histamine receptor blockers. Zyrtec is used to treat allergic symptoms like tearing and redness of the eyes, running and red nose and hives including itching, skin rashes and insect bites. Cetirizine blocks the actions of the naturally occurring chemicals called histamines in the body. Histamines are responsible for promoting symptoms of allergy when released by allergic reactions in the body. Cetirizine is one of those new antihistamines called non-sedating antihistamines because they cause fewer side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. To know more about the uses of Zyrtec, you will need to speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cetirizine is available in both solid and liquid forms. You may take Cetirizine by mouth in form of a tablet or syrup. It is usually taken once a day. Cetirizine can be taken with or without food. You need to follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. You could always ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. It is recommended that you do not take more or less dose of Cetirizine than prescribed by your doctor.

Consult your doctor about the possible side effects of using Cetirizine for your condition.

. Overdose of this medicine could have bad results. The victim of overdose may show symptoms like drowsiness, agitation or petulance. It is recommended that you call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 in case of overdose. If the victim is unconscious or has a breathing problem then call local emergency services at 911.

It is very important to know as how Zyrtec affects you. If you are taking Cetirizine, it may make you drowsy. Hence, it is better to avoid driving a car or operating machinery. In addition, remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Zyrtec. Hence, you take alcoholic beverages; consult your doctor about their effect when you are taking Cetirizine. You need to keep all appointments with your doctor. Take care to see that anyone should not take your medication. Always consult your pharmacist if you have any questions about refilling your prescription.

If you have missed a dose recently, you may take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If the next dose is due, it is better to skip the missed dose. It is advisable to continue your regular schedule. Under no circumstances, it is allowed to take a double dose to make up for a missed dose

Cetirizine should be stored at room temperature. It should be kept away from excess heat and moisture. Hence, should not be stored in the bathroom. The medication should be kept in the container it came in only. The container should be kept tightly closed and out of reach of children. If the medicine become outdated or you are no longer taking it then you need to discard it safely. Consult your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

You need to inform your doctor in advance?

1. If you are allergic to Cetirizine, hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril) or any other medication.

2. If you are taking prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements and herbal products especially, if you are taking theophylline (Theobid-Theo-Dur)

4. If you have or have ever had kidney or liver disorder

5. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding

In addition, if you become pregnant while taking Cetirizine, inform your doctor at earliest.