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Cetirizine

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Molecule Summary

Uses
Allergic Rhinitis and Skin Allergy
Therapy
Anti-Allergic
Side Effects
Tiredness, Headache, Sleepiness, Drowsiness, Nausea
3 Step Quality
Assurance
Cash on delivery
available
NPPA
Regulated

Molecule Description

Cetirizine is an anti-allergic medicine that helps relieve symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and hives caused by allergies, hay fever, or the common cold. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance in the body responsible for allergic reactions. Cetirizine typically begins to take effect within one hour and offers long-lasting relief. It can be taken with or without food, but it’s best to take it at the same time each day. Avoid alcohol while taking cetirizine, as it may increase drowsiness. Always use this medicine as advised by your doctor.

Uses

This medicine is used for the relief of symptoms of hay fever and allergies such as dust or pet allergies, sneezing, itchy, runny and blocked nose, red and watery eyes. It is also used to treat swelling, redness and itchiness of the skin.

Contraindications

When should one not use Cetirizine

Allergic to Cetirizine or having severe kidney disease.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Allergic reactions like rash, swelling loss of consciousness and loss of weight
  • Tremors or fits
  • Tiredness
  • Dry mouth, diarrhea
  • Sore throat
  • Abdominal pain

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or you think you might be pregnant or are planning pregnancy, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Breast Feeding

It is not advisable during breastfeeding. The patient should consult with the doctor first.

Driving

Driving

It does not affect your driving ability, but you may feel drowsy. Hence better to avoid if you feel drowsiness.

Alcohol

Alcohol

This medicine may cause calmness and excessive drowsiness with alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if
  • You have fits or kidney problem
  • You are suffering from spinal cord lesion

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

This medicine is an Antihistamine and it works by blocking a particular natural substance (Histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

  • Paracetamol
  • Atropine
  • Phenobarbital
  • Most sedatives
  • Other antibiotics of Cephalosporins class
  • Codeine
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Phenylephrine
  • Guaifenesin
  • Carbidopa/ Levodopa
  • Chlorcyclizine, etc.E11

Interactions with food items

No information is available on interactions of Cetirizine when taken with food, so consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage

Overdose

The most common signs and symptoms of overdose may include feeling unwell, confused, restless, shaky, dizzy, tired or very sleepy. You may also notice a rapid heartbeat, dilated pupils or blurred vision and experience headache. Consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Missed a Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember and then wait 24 hours before taking your next dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up with the skipped dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have any specific medical condition. Also, mention all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations, and nutritional supplements that you may be taking to your doctor before starting this medication.

Cetirizine is an anti-allergy medication (antihistamine) that helps alleviate symptoms caused by allergic reactions. It is commonly used for hay fever, dust or pet allergies, skin allergies, hives (red, itchy patches), and reactions that cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the throat or skin.

Most people tolerate Cetirizine well. Some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, or mild stomach upset. These effects are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts. Serious side effects are rare, but if you notice difficulty breathing, a severe rash, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical help immediately.

Cetirizine may interact with alcohol, sleeping pills, sedatives, and some anxiety or allergy medicines that also cause drowsiness, leading to increased sleepiness or reduced alertness. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines, herbal products, or supplements you are taking so they can check for safe combinations.

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