How to Use Cetirizine
How should you use cetirizine?
You should use the cetirizine medication exactly as directed on the label or as instructed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
If you are using the liquid form of cetirizine, carefully measure the dose using the provided measuring device or special spoon that comes with the product packaging. Do not use regular teaspoons, as they may not measure the dose accurately.
You can take cetirizine with or without food. If you have any questions about how to use it, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
What should you do in case of overdose?
Symptoms of cetirizine overdose may include excessive drowsiness in adults and restlessness in children. Serious overdose cases may require inducing vomiting and gastric lavage, along with supportive measures. There is currently no specific antidote available for cetirizine overdose.
In case of emergencies or overdose, call the local emergency center or visit the nearest healthcare facility.
Additionally, make sure to keep a record of all the medications you have taken, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
What should you do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of cetirizine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the prescribed dose.
Side Effects of Cetirizine
What side effects can you experience when taking cetirizine?
Like all medications, Cetirizine 10mg may cause some unwanted side effects, although not everyone may experience them.
The possible side effects associated with its use include:
- Common side effects (occurring in more than 1 in 100 people): Excessive drowsiness, which is dose-dependent. The medicine may also cause fatigue, dry mouth, sore throat, dizziness, headache, and nausea.
- Uncommon side effects (occurring in 1 in 1000 to 1 in 100 people): Decreased appetite or increased appetite, difficulty urinating, redness, increased salivation.
- Rare side effects (occurring in less than 1 in 1000 people): Blood disorders, decreased platelet count, severe hypotension, anaphylactic shock, liver inflammation, bile stasis, glomerulonephritis.
If you experience any of the described side effects or have more severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you have any initial signs of an allergic reaction to the medication, stop taking cetirizine 10mg or cetirizine 5mg and inform your doctor about these symptoms. Allergic reactions to the drug may include difficulty breathing, facial, neck, tongue, or throat swelling.
If you think that you have any other side effects that are not mentioned in this article, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about your health condition.
Precautions/Warnings
What should you be aware of before using cetirizine medication?
Cetirizine 10mg and 5mg dosages should be adjusted in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment, those receiving dialysis treatment, and patients with liver dysfunction.
Exercise caution while driving or operating machinery when taking cetirizine.
What should you keep in mind when using medication in special cases (pregnancy, breastfeeding, surgery)?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor for thorough advice before using any medication.
Similar to other medications, cetirizine 10mg should be avoided in pregnant women. If a pregnant woman unintentionally uses this drug, it can have adverse effects on the fetus.
Furthermore, you should also avoid using cetirizine 10mg while breastfeeding, as the drug may enter breast milk and affect the baby.
Drug Interactions
Can cetirizine interact with other drugs?
Cetirizine may alter the way other medications work or increase the effects of their side effects. Inform your doctor if you regularly use sleep-inducing medications (such as cold or allergy medications, painkillers with addictive substances, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and anti-seizure or antidepressant drugs). They may enhance the drowsiness effects caused by cetirizine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Can cetirizine interact with food or drinks?
Do not consume alcohol while taking cetirizine, as it may enhance the effects of the medication.
Which health conditions affect the use of cetirizine?
Your health condition may affect the use of this medication. Inform your doctor if you have any specific health issues.
Medication Storage
How should you store cetirizine medication?
Store cetirizine at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Do not store it in the bathroom or in the refrigerator. Remember that each medication may have different storage instructions. Therefore, read the storage guidelines on the packaging or consult your pharmacist. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not dispose of medications in the toilet or the drain unless instructed. Instead, dispose of them properly when they are expired or no longer needed. You can seek advice from a pharmacist or local waste management company on how to safely dispose of medications.
