Zyrtec Generic Name: CETIRIZINE (se-TI-ra-zeen)

ZyrtecDrug Manufacturer: PFIZER U.S.

Zyrtec Common Uses: This medicine is an antihistamine used to treat both seasonal and perennial allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose (rhinitis), itching eyes, and sneezing. Cetirizine is also used to treat hives.

How to use this Zyrtec Medicine: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE is usually taken by mouth once daily. THIS MEDICINE MAY BE TAKEN on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. BRIEF STORAGE between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is acceptable. 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.

Zyrtec Cautions: THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE DROWSINESS. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. LIMIT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES while taking this medicine. DO NOT INCREASE YOUR DOSE or take more of this medicine than prescribed without checking with your doctor. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter (e.g., cough-and-cold products), check with your doctor or pharmacist about their safe use. These medicines may also contain ingredients which can cause drowsiness. THIS MEDICINE MAY INTERFERE WITH allergy test results. Check with your doctor for instruction on how long you will need to stop taking this medicine prior to those tests. CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN USING THIS MEDICINE IN THE ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially the drowsiness effect. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and the risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.