The
following information is a summary about Zyrtec.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
USES
Zyrtec is an antihistamine which provides relief
of allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose,
itching eyes, sneezing, itching and hives.
DIRECTIONS
Take Zyrtec by mouth once a day as directed. Zyrtec
may be taken with or without food. Do not increase
your dose or take Zyrtec more often than directed.
SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness, sleepiness, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness,
increased appetite, and nausea may occur. These effects
should subside as your body adjusts to the med. If
they continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop any of these serious
effects while taking Zyrtec: chest pain, rash, trouble
breathing. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: liver or kidney disease, asthma, any blood disorders,
any any allergies. Limit intake of alcohol to prevent
excessive drowsiness. Tell your doctor if you are
pregnant before taking Zyrtec. Zyrtec is excreted
into human breast milk. Discuss the risks of breast-feeding
with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter and prescription
med you may take including: sedatives, tranquilizers,
narcotic pain relievers, sleep medicine, drugs for
anxiety, barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), psychiatric
medicines, other antihistamines. Do not start or
stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a Zyrtec dose, take it as soon as remembered;
do not take it if it is near the time for the next
dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose
to catch up.
OVERDOSE
If Zyrtec overdose is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include sleepiness, shortness
of breath, clumsiness, hallucinations, and seizures.
NOTES
Zyrtec can affect results of allergy tests. Remind
your doctor you are taking this drug if you are scheduled
for any tests.
STORAGE
Store Zyrtec between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30
degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store
in the bathroom.
