Zyrtec is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, and other allergy symptoms. This eMedTV resource offers a complete overview of the medication, including information on the side effects, dosing guidelines, and other uses of this antihistamine.
Common Zyrtec uses include the treatment of runny nose, watery eyes, and hives-related itching. This eMedTV article takes an in-depth look at the many uses of Zyrtec, including detailed dosing guidelines on when and how to take the medication.
Possible side effects of Zyrtec include fatigue, sore throat, and dry mouth. This part of the eMedTV site further discusses the side effects of this drug, explaining which ones are more common in children and which ones require immediate medical care.
Certain side effects may occur with the use of Zyrtec. Weight gain has been reported, albeit rarely. This eMedTV segment lists some things that may help with any weight gain that occurs, such as exercising and eating a heart-healthy diet.
This eMedTV resource highlights dry mouth, one of the most common side effects of Zyrtec. This page lists a number of things you can do if you're taking Zyrtec and dry mouth develops, such as avoiding tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol.
Side effects may occur with the use of Zyrtec; effects on libido occur in less than 2 percent of people. This eMedTV article discusses the likelihood of developing sexual side effects and advises talking to your doctor if they become a problem.
The recommended Zyrtec dosage for most adults is 10 mg once daily. As this eMedTV segment points out, however, mild symptoms may respond to a smaller dose. This article gives an overview of Zyrtec dosing, including information on amounts for children.
Several drugs can interact with Zyrtec, including theophylline and sleep medications. This page on the eMedTV site takes a closer look at other possible Zyrtec drug interactions and includes information on the problems that may occur as a result.
If you have liver or kidney disease, your body may not handle Zyrtec as well as it should. This portion of the eMedTV library offers a list of important Zyrtec warnings and precautions, including a list of people who should avoid the drug entirely.
Taking too much Zyrtec (cetirizine) could result in overdose symptoms such as drowsiness and irritability. This eMedTV selection provides more information on what to expect from a Zyrtec overdose, including possible symptoms and treatment options.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) should be safe to take during pregnancy. However, as this eMedTV page points out, you should still consult your healthcare provider before taking the drug if you are pregnant. This article discusses Zyrtec and pregnancy in detail.
It is not known if Zyrtec (cetirizine) passes through breast milk in humans. This part of the eMedTV Web site deals with Zyrtec and breastfeeding, including what to watch for if your healthcare provider approves taking the drug while breastfeeding.
At this time, generic Zyrtec is available as tablets, chewable tablets, and syrup. This page from the eMedTV archives tells you what you need to know about these generic medications, including information on who manufactures them.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is now available over the counter (OTC). This resource from the eMedTV archives gives an overview of OTC Zyrtec, including answers to several questions regarding the cost, strength, and quality of the over-the-counter version.
