Cetirizine

ENERIC NAME: cetirizine

Antihistamines block the effects of histamines. Histamines cause symptoms of allergy when released by allergic reactions in the body. Antihistamines block the ability of histamine to promote the allergy symptoms. For further information, please read the Allergic Rhinitis article.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PREPARATIONS: 5mg and 10mg oral tablets.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Cetirizine is used by people who suffer from allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itchy nose (allergic rhinitis) and itchy eyes. It also has been used to treat hives.

DOSING: Cetirizine should be taken at doses specifically directed by a physician. Cetirizine can be taken with food.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Cetirizine should be taken only in doses prescribed. Increasing the dose can be dangerous. When taking cetirizine with theophylline the dose of theophylline may need to be reduced. Cetirizine occasionally can cause sleepiness . Cetirizine can be taken with erythromycin or ketaconazole without the increased risk of heart irregularities common to other non-sedating antihistamines. Cetirizine also can be used to treat children.

USES
This medication is an antihistamine which provides relief of seasonal and perennial allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose (rhinitis), itching eyes, and sneezing. It is also used for hives.

HOW TO USE
Take this medication by mouth once a day; or use as directed by your doctor. This drug may be taken with or without food. The chewable tablet form of this medication may be taken with or without water. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected.

SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness, fatigue and dry mouth may occur. In children, stomach pain and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent fatigue. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS
Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to hydroxyzine; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease. This drug may make you drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the drowsiness effect. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of drugs that cause drowsiness such as: anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), other antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives), muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), tranquilizers. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness. In children, symptoms may include initial restlessness and irritability followed by drowsiness.

MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE
Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Note : This product information is intended only for residents of the India. Taj Pharmaceuticals Limited, medicines help to treat and prevent a range of conditions—from the most common to the most challenging—for people around the world.