Zyrtec
Generic Name:
Brand Names:
Zyrtec
Zyrtec Description:
Zyrtec is an antihistamine medication that may be purchased over-the-counter to treat symptoms of seasonal or year round allergies.
Zyrtec Side Effects:
The most common side effects of Zyrtec are:
- Drowsiness
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
For more information, see our Zyrtec side effects page.
Zyrtec Uses:
Zyrtec is an over-the-counter medication that may treat the following allergy symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Itchy nose and throat
Zyrtec may also treat itching and redness caused by hives, but will not prevent hives or other allergic skin reactions. Zyrtec may also be prescribed in combination with asthma medications to prevent or reduce wheezing or difficulty breathing.
Zyrtec Interactions:
Other medications may interact with Zyrtec or increase the risk of side effects. Discuss any medications, supplements or vitamins with your doctor before taking Zyrtec.
The following medications may interact with Zyrtec:
- Antidepressants
- Anxiety medications
- Seizure medications
- Mental illness medications
- Cold and allergy medications
- Aspirin
- Sedatives
- Sleeping pills
- Tranquilizers
- Theophylline
Patients with a history or current diagnosis of any of following conditions should consult their doctor before treatment with Zyrtec:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Allergies to Zyrtec or similar medications
Zyrtec Dosage Information:
Patients should take Zyrtec exactly as packaging instructions dictate. Do not take more than the recommended dose of Zyrtec.
The following information can be used as a guideline for dosing each type of Zyrtec formulation:
- Zyrtec 10 mg liquid gels and tablets– Intended for adults and children age 6 and older, take one capsule every 24 hours to manage allergy symptoms
- Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops – Intended for patients 3 years or older, place one drop into each affected eye every eight to 12 hours. Do not exceed more than two doses per eye, daily.
- Children’s Zyrtec Perfect Measure – Intended for children age 6 and older, use one (5 ml) or two (10 ml) pre-filled spoons once a day depending on the severity of allergy symptoms. Do not exceed more than two pre-filled spoons in 24 hours.
- Children’s Zyrtec Allergy Syrup – available in grape and bubble gum flavors. Follow dosing guidelines for each age group:
- Children 2 to 6 years old – one-half (2.5 ml) teaspoon daily. Do not exceed more than one (2.5 ml) dose in 24 hours.
- Adults and children 6 years and older – One (5 ml) or two (10 ml) teaspoons once a day depending on the severity of allergy symptoms.
- Adults 65 years and older – One teaspoon daily. Do not exceed more than one (5 ml) dose in 24 hours.
- Children’s Zyrtec 10 mg Chewables – Intended for adults and children age 6 and older, take one 10 mg tablet every 24 hours.
Missing a Dose of Zyrtec
If you miss a dose of Zyrtec, take it as soon as you remember. If you are within two hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medicine.
Zyrtec Overdose
Patients who overdose on Zyrtec may experience symptoms of restlessness, irritability, or drowsiness. Call your doctor if you experience any of these overdose symptoms.
Zyrtec FDA Approval:
December 8, 1995
Zyrtec Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
A recall was issued for Zyrtec over-the-counter 5 mg tablets and Zyrtec 1 mg/ml solution in June 2009. (Recall # D-1190-2009, D-669-2009)
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