The frustration of an allergy is only understood by those who have it. Not all people have allergies, but some people have some allergies that cause their bodies to react oddly. For example, some might start sneezing when exposed to dust; some would start coughing when smelling something odd, etc.

In short, there are several entities that can trigger people's allergies. However, there are certain medications that can fix these allergies. For example, Cetirizine tablets or Zyrtec are medications that can be used for allergies like a runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and more. Here is everything about Cetirizine tablets, including their ideal dosage, interactions, and more.

An Overview of Cetirizine Tablets!

Cetirizine is an antihistamine that is used to treat allergies like itchy eyes, watery eyes, stuffy nose, running nose, etc. During an allergic reaction, the body releases a chemical named histamine that is blocked by Cetirizine to relieve the patient from the allergic reaction.

Here are some primary facts about Cetirizine!

Cetirizine does not make the person sleepy as compared to other antihistamine medications. However, there are some who still may feel sleepy.

The medication is available in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquids that one can consume.

The dosage of Cetirizine is one tablet per day, but for children under 12, it is two tablets a day.

There can be some minor side effects of Cetirizine that include feeling sick, dry mouth, headaches, diarrhoea, and dizziness.

Cetirizine produced by some brands may contain Soya oil. So, if someone is allergic to peanuts and soya, don’t consume Cetirizine.

Risks of Cetirizine Tablets

There are several health conditions that can pose a risk to the consumption of Cetirizine tablets. Therefore, it is imperative to let the healthcare provider know about that health condition. Here are some of them!

If the person has a liver or kidney disease, it is crucial to let the healthcare provider know about it.

If the person is pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

If the person is breast-feeding

If the person is also allergic to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, and other medications.

If the person is allergic to food additives

If the person has an allergy to soya and peanuts.

How to Deal with Side Effects of Cetirizine?

As mentioned above, Cetirizine has several side effects. If someone is feeling some of the side effects, here are the ways to deal with them.

Diarrhoea: If the person witnesses' diarrhoea after taking Cetirizine, it is best to drink an ample amount of water to neutralize the water drainage effect. Make sure not to take any medication without talking to the doctor.
Sleepy or tired: If feeling sleepy after taking Cetirizine, it is better to try another antihistamine.
Dry mouth: Chew sugar-free gum.
Dizziness: If the person is feeling dizzy, avoid any kind of activity that includes moving, such as driving, cycling, or working. Moreover, try to lie down or sit still till they feel better. If a person wants to get up, get up slowly.
Nausea: If feeling nauseated, it is best to take the Cetirizine Tablets with simple food. Avoid spicy food at all costs.
Headache: It is best to rest and drink plenty of fluids and not alcohol. If headaches last more than a week, go see a doctor.

What Things Can Interact with Cetirizine Tablets?

There can be several things that can interact with Cetirizine Tablets. Therefore, it is best to tell the healthcare provider about all types of medications, supplements, and food items the person consumes daily.

Some of the things that may interact with Cetirizine Tablets are narcotic medicines, alcohol, medication for anxiety, sleep, colds, or allergies.

What if I miss a dose?

Well, if a person misses a dose of Cetirizine Tablets, it is best to take the next dose the same way. No need to add extra tablets to catch up with the schedule.

The ideal maintenance dose of Cetirizine Tablets is 2 tablets per day.

Conclusion

Allergies can be frustrating when someone is a busy professional and must work in the same environment that triggers them. However, there is a solution for everyhing, and Cetirizine tablets are the best way to prevent allergies like a runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, etc. It is recommended to talk to a healthcare professional before these tablets as there can be side effects and interactions varying from person to person.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cetirizine Tablets!

Q. What is a cetirizine tablet used for?
A. Cetirizine tablets are used to prevent allergies like hives, red eyes, itchy eyes, sneezing, etc., by blocking the release of histamine.

Q. Why is cetirizine taken at night?
A. Well, drowsiness is a side effect of cetirizine. Therefore, for some people, it is best to take it at night. Ideally, it can be taken at any time of the day.

Q. Is cetirizine good for a cough?
A. Yes, cetirizine tablets are good for coughing as they are due to pollen allergy.

Q. Is cetirizine a sleeping pill?
A. No, it is not a sleeping pill but an antihistamine which is non-drowsy.

Q. Is cetirizine safe to take daily?
A. Yes, cetirizine is safe to consume daily, but in moderation and as per doctor’s prescription.

References

https://www.rxlist.com/zyrtec-drug.htm
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19298-cetirizine-tablets