Zyrtec is an over-the-counter medication used to treat and prevent symptoms associated with seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, itchy or water eyes, runny nose, and itchy nose or throat. Zyrtec is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by chronic urticaria (hives). It is available for adults and children over 2 years old.
Before taking Zyrtec
To make sure you can safely take Zyrtec, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
If you have are allergic to cetirizine
If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, or you are breast-feeding
If you have liver disease
If you have kidney disease
Zyrtec Side Effects:
Headache ( up to 11 percent )
Dizziness ( up to 8 percent )
Drowsiness ( up to 12 percent )
Nausea ( up to 4 percent )
Cough ( up to 3 percent )
Constipation ( up to 3.7 percent )
Fatigue ( up to 4.7 percent )
Sore throat ( up to 1.8 percent )
Diarrhea ( up to 3.5 percent )
Problems with vision ( up to 1.5 percent )
Abdominal pain ( up to 2.6 percent )
Stomach pain ( up to 1.8 percent )
Weakness ( up to 3.5 percent )
Swelling ( up to 2.8 percent )
Nosebleeds ( up to 3.4 percent )
Warnings
Zyrtec may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
It is a good idea to avoid alcohol while taking Zyrtec, since using them together could cause problems, such as severe drowsiness.
It is not known if Zyrtec passes through breast milk in humans. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, discuss this with your healthcare provider prior to taking the drug.
