Itchy Watery Eyes

Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering eyes and other allergic symptoms. Zyrtec is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other allergic inflammatory conditions.

How Taken

Zyrtec is in the form of tablets to take orally. It is usually taken once a day. It can be taken regularly or when allergy symptoms erupt. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Zyrtec exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Warnings

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or liver disease. You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy with Zyrtec. Zyrtec is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Zyrtec passes into breast milk and may affect the baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 60, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Zyrtec. You may need a lower dose of this medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, do not take an extra tablet to catch up the dose you forgot. Wait and take the next tablet at the usual time. Do not take more tablets than prescribed by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Stop taking Zyrtec and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of your throat, swelling of lips, tongue, or face, or hives). Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue to take Zyrtec and talk to your doctor if you experience sleepiness, fatigue or dizziness, headache or dry mouth. The side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Storage

Store at 20-25 ° C (68-77 ° F), excursions permitted to 15-30 ° C (59-86 ° F).

Overdose

Seek medical attention urgently. Symptoms of a Zyrtec overdose are not well known, but extreme sleepiness, confusion, and weakness may be expected.

More

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Zyrtec.