Cetirizine hydrochloride, the active component in tablets and syrup of Zyrtec, is an orally active and selective H1-receptor antagonist. Cetirizine HCl is an antihistamine that reduces levels of the natural produced chemical histamine in the body. The effect of this histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Cetirizine HCl works to block this histamine from exerting any effect. Developed by UCB Inc and approved by the FDA, Zyrtec has achieved public popularity for its effectiveness and quick action.
DOSAGES
You can buy Cetirizine HCl drug in tablet and chewable tablet form in 5mg and 10mg strength, while the syrup comes in 1mg/mL dosage.
Zyrtec treatment calls for certain precautions and you should ensure that you have all necessary information about it before you start taking the drug. Most important is that Zyrtec should not be administered to any patients with a known allergy to any antihistamines. This drug may make you drowsy, so you should be careful in using machinery or driving. Alcohol consumption should also be cut down as it can increase the drowsiness caused by this drug.
There are certain known side effects of Zyrtec and its generic alternatives, with the most common being sedation, drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth. In paediatric patients, it might also cause stomach pain and vomiting. If any of these Zyrtec side effects persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor immediately. While dangerous allergic reactions are rare, you must seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. You might be on a higher dosage of the medication.
