Zyrtec-D

Brand name:

Zyrtec-D

Pronounced: ZEER-tek
Generic ingredients: Cetirizine hydrochloride, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride

Why is Zyrtec-D prescribed?

Zyrtec-D contains the same antihistamine found in regular Zyrtec, plus the decongestant pseudoephedrine. The drug is prescribed to relieve the symptoms of hay fever and similar allergies, whether seasonal or year-round.

Most important fact about Zyrtec-D

Unlike regular Zyrtec, this drug should be avoided by anyone with severe heart or blood pressure problems.

How should you take Zyrtec-D?

Zyrtec-D comes in 12-hour extended release tablets, and should be taken no more than twice a day. The tablet may be taken with or without food, but should be swallowed whole, without breaking or chewing.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

• More common side effects may include:
  Dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, sleepiness

Why should Zyrtec-D not be prescribed?

If you are allergic to any of Zyrtec-D's ingredients, to the similar drug Atarax, or to certain drugs that tend to raise blood pressure (adrenergic agents), do not take Zyrtec-D. Symptoms that indicate a sensitivity to adrenergic agents include insomnia, dizziness, weakness, tremor, or irregular heartbeat.

You should also avoid Zyrtec-D if you have severe high blood pressure, severe heart disease, high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), or difficulty urinating. Never combine Zyrtec-D with a drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.

Special warnings about Zyrtec-D

If you have a mild case of high blood pressure or heart disease, use Zyrtec-D sparingly. Be cautious, too, if you have diabetes, a tendency to increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma), an overactive thyroid gland, or an enlarged prostate gland. If you have kidney or liver problems, make sure your doctor is aware of it. Your dosage may have to be reduced.

Zyrtec-D makes some people sleepy. Exercise caution when driving a car or operating potentially dangerous machinery after taking this drug.

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