This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.

Common Uses

Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Zyrtec blocks the actions of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Zyrtec is less likely than some other antihistamines to cause side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. It is used to treat the symptoms of allergies such as sneezing; runny nose; itching, tearing, and redness of the eyes; and hives.

How to Take

Take Zyrtec by mouth with or without food. Adults: 5 to 10 mg once a day. Children younger than 2 years of age: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. Children 2 to 6 years of age: 2.5 mg once a day, up to a maximum of 5 mg once a day or 2.5 mg twice a day. Children 6 years of age and older: 5 to 10 mg once a day.

Warning and Precautions

Zyrtec may cause drowsiness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Zyrtec with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

Zyrtec may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Zyrtec. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.

Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Zyrtec while you are pregnant. Zyrtec is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Zyrtec.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Overdose

Symptoms may include irritability; restlessness; severe drowsiness. Contact your local poison control center.

Storage

Store Zyrtec at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zyrtec out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome: Drowsiness; dry mouth; stomach pain (in children); tiredness; trouble sleeping (in children).

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); dark urine; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; mental or mood changes; persistent fatigue; seizures; severe dizziness; unusual bruising or bleeding; yellowing of eyes or skin.

More Information

The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Zyrtec. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.