Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Cetirizine
Other Names: Zyrtec Syrup
Drug Class: Antihistamines
Rx Status: Available by prescription and some strengths/formulations are over-the-counter (OTC)
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Zyrtec Syrup? (Back to top)
CETIRIZINE is an antihistamine. This medicine is used to treat or prevent symptoms of allergies. It is also used to help reduce itchy skin rash and hives. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Household spoons are not accurate. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. You can take this medicine with food or on an empty stomach. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more often than directed. You may need to take this medicine for several days before your symptoms improve.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in children as young as 6 months.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

• other medicines for colds or allergies
• theophylline

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• changes in vision or hearing
• fast heartbeat
• high blood pressure
• infection
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• irritability
• loss of sleep
• sore throat
• stomach pain
• swelling

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your health. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

This medicine may make you feel confused, dizzy or lightheaded. Drinking alcohol or taking medicine that causes drowsiness can make this worse. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water will help.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature of 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C). You may store in the refrigerator at 36 to 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:June 02, 2007

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