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Generic Name: Cetirizine
Brand Name(s): Zyrtec
Information updated: April 1, 2000
Overview
Zyrtec is a relatively new antihistamine used to treat allergies such as hay fever. It alleviates symptoms of runny nose, itchy, red, watery eyes, and sneezing.
Zyrtec has also been found to be helpful against hives and itching of the skin.
Unlike Seldane and Hismanal it does not appear to interact with other drugs or cause heart rhythm irregularities.
Side Effects and Interactions
The most common side effects of Zyrtec include drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, and dizziness. Rare side effects may include nausea, headache, tremor, digestive upset, increased appetite, weight gain, ringing in ears, muscle pain, skin rash, hair loss, and liver enzyme elevations. Report any symptoms to your physician promptly.
Drug interactions are apparently uncommon, though alcohol and nervous system depressants could add to the sedative action of Zyrtec.
Special Precautions
Older people and those with kidney or liver problems may not eliminate Zyrtec efficiently and will likely need a lower dose.
Because this antihistamine may cause drowsiness it could make driving dangerous. This is also true for any task that requires mental alertness.
Do not drink alcohol or take other sedating drugs as it could add to this effect.
Taking the Medicine
Food has very little impact on Zyrtec absorption and consequently this medicine can be taken once a day at a time that is convenient.
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000