Cetrizine Side Effects: What You Should Expect

Cetirizine is an over-the-counter medication that can treat mild to moderate allergy symptoms. Before using any medication, especially one that is over-the-counter, you should be aware of all the possible negative effects. What are some cetirizine side effects? 

Describe your symptoms and any other conditions you may be experiencing to your doctor. Your doctor may suggest a different antihistamine or a medication that contains cetirizine plus another substance that may need a prescription.

Here are a few questions you might ask your doctor about cetirizine and cetirizine side effects: 

• Is cetirizine the right drug for me? What are my alternatives and options?
• How frequently and how much cetirizine should I take?
• What are some cetirizine side effects I will experience?
• Can I take cetirizine while also taking other meds for my health issues?
• Are there any other risks or dangers related to this medication?
• What are the warning signals of an emergency and what should I do when one occurs?

Why is it used?

The antihistamine drug ecetirizine is used to treat hay fever and conjunctivitis, two illnesses that are brought on by allergies (red, itchy eye). Your doctor may prescribe cetirizine if you suffer from year-round allergies or seasonal allergies like hay fever. However, cetirizine does not treat or prevent allergies.

When you come into contact with things to which you may be allergic, your body begins to exhibit the majority of the symptoms linked with allergic responses (allergens).

The following mild to moderate allergy symptoms are helped by cetirizine:

Wet or itching eyes

Many over-the-counter decongestants and cold remedies also contain antihistamines and can cause dry eye. Antihistamines that are more likely to cause dry eye: diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and loratadine (Claritin). Those that are less likely to cause dry eye: Cetirizine (Zyrtec), desloratadine (Clarinex), and fexofenadine (Allegra)

Stuffy nose or throat

Antihistamine and decongestant cetirizine; pseudoephedrine (se ti ra zeen; soo doe e fed rin) is used to treat or prevent allergy symptoms. It lessens congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itching in the nose or throat, as well as itchy, watery, and red eyes. Sneezing, runny nose, itchy, red, watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat are some of the symptoms of hay fever (allergy to pollen, dust, or other substances in the air) and allergy to other substances (such as dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches, and molds), which are temporarily relieved by the drug cetirizine.

Rashes

In addition, cetirizine addresses hives, which are itchy, raised skin rashes that usually go along with medication or food allergies.

Cetirizine Side Effects

What are some cetirizine side effects? Any persistent or bothersome side effects you experience while taking cetirizine should be reported to your doctor. Most common cetirizine side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Stomach discomfort
• Mild tiredness
• Extreme fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Although a severe adverse reaction to this medication is uncommon, if you experience any of the following cetirizine side effects or symptoms, get immediate medical attention: rash, severe dizziness, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling, particularly of the face, tongue, or throat.

Most people find cetirizine to be non-sedating, so they take it in the morning. However, a small percentage of people do find cetirizine to be sedating, so it is best to take it in the evening if it does make you drowsy. Cetirizine can be taken with or without food. Adults and children 6 years of age and older can take cetirizine capsules and tablets.

If you have liver or kidney illness, talk to your doctor about the recommended dosage. The recommended dosage for adults under the age of 65 and children aged 6 and older is one 10-milligram (mg) dose per day. You shouldn’t take more than 10 mg in a 24-hour period.

Cetirizine (zyrtec) is less likely to result in adverse effects like hazardous drowsiness, dry mouth, impaired vision, and overheating than first-generation antihistamines. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) can be taken daily if you experience allergy symptoms on a regular basis. If not, you can take it as needed on days when these symptoms concern you.

Precautions and warnings

When operating machinery, use caution. Even while cetirizine typically doesn’t make you drowsy, some people react differently to it, especially in the first few doses. Be cautious and avoid using machinery or operating a motor vehicle until you know exactly how your body will respond to cetirizine.

Use caution if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Cetirizine is generally safe to take while pregnant or trying to get pregnant, as well as while nursing. However, if you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.

Be aware that alcohol can increase the drowsiness that this medication causes. Therefore, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Patients taking cetirizine need to be monitored for the relief of their symptoms. Additionally, healthcare professionals should keep an eye out for cetirizine side effects like fatigue and somnolence in adults.

Key Takeaway

Arre there any cetirizine side effects? Antihistamines are frequently used to treat seasonal allergies, but some antihistamines can treat stomach problems, like heartburn. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to discuss which antihistamine would be the best option for your symptoms. Do not take any medication that is not prescribed by your doctor. 

Learn more about Allergies here.