Zyrtec (Cetirizine - non Rx)

Do's

• Take an oral dose of 5 to 10 mg once a day, with a maximum dose of 10 mg per day, if you have allergic rhinitis or urticaria. 
• Administer the recommended dose of 5 mL or 10 mL once daily for children aged 6 years and above, depending on the severity of symptoms. 
• Ensure a maximum dosage of 10 mL in 24 hours for children aged 6 years and above. 
• Administer the recommended dose of 5 mL once daily for adults aged 65 years and over and ensure not to exceed 5 mL in 24 hours with caution. 
• Use a special measuring device/spoon to measure the dose of the liquid form of Zyrtec accurately. 
• Chew chewable tablets well before swallowing. 
• Allow rapidly dissolving tablets to dissolve on the tongue before swallowing with or without water. 
• Take Zyrtec with or without food as directed. 
• Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. 
• Seek medical help right away if your allergy symptoms do not improve, if your hives do not improve after 3 days of treatment, or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. 
• Follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as directed on the product packaging to ensure the safe and effective use of Zyrtec. 
• Consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for further guidance if you have any questions or concerns. 

Don'ts

• Don't increase your dose or take Zyrtec more often than directed. 
• Don't use a household spoon to measure the liquid form of Zyrtec, as it may lead to incorrect dosing. 

The dosage of Zyrtec is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. 

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Cough, drowsiness, tiredness
• Headache, dizziness, feeling light-headed
• Feeling hot, sweating
• Numbness, tingling, burning pain
• Altered sense of taste
• Upset stomach, constipation
• Nosebleed, dry mouth, sore throat

Less Common Side Effects:

• Some drowsiness
• Excessive tiredness
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Rare Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions
• Seizures
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure

These lists do not include all possible side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unexpected side effects while taking Zyrtec, consult your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you have any ongoing or bothersome side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Zyrtec can cause side effects that may impair thinking or reactions. Be cautious if engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. 

Avoiding alcohol consumption is also recommended, as it can increase some of the side effects of Zyrtec.

Avoid taking Zyrtec if you are allergic to cetirizine or any of the ingredients contained in the drug. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Before taking Zyrtec, inform your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver disease. Additionally, discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your healthcare provider

Inform your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take while using Zyrtec. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for potential side effects.

The information provided here is for general knowledge. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and advice regarding the use of Zyrtec.