Zyrtec Syrup

Composition of Zyrtec Syrup

Zyrtec Syrup contains Cetirizine (5mg/5ml). It belongs to the Second-generation H1 antihistamine class of medicines.

Uses of Zyrtec Syrup

• Relief of allergic rhinitis (sneezing
• runny/itchy nose
• watery eyes)
• urticaria (hives)
• other allergic skin/respiratory allergy symptoms.

Key benefits

• Relieves sneezing and runny nose
• Reduces itching and watery eyes
• Helps control hives (urticaria)
• Provides 24-hour allergy symptom relief
• Less sedating than older antihistamines

How Zyrtec Syrup works

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks H1 receptors, reducing the effects of histamine released during allergic reactions. It relieves sneezing, itching, runny nose and hives with relatively less sedation than first-generation antihistamines.

How to take Zyrtec Syrup

Oral syrup. Use as prescribed by the doctor; measure with a calibrated cup/spoon. Can be taken with or without food; taking in the evening may help if drowsiness occurs. Do not exceed the recommended dose; shake well before use.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is almost due, skip the one you missed — never take two doses together to catch up.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause severe drowsiness, a fast heartbeat, confusion and, in children, agitation and fits. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Zyrtec Syrup

Most side effects of Zyrtec are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• fatigue
• dry mouth
• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• stomach pain

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Zyrtec Syrup

Warnings and precautions

May cause drowsiness—avoid driving/operating machinery until you know the effect. Use with caution in kidney disease (dose adjustment may be needed). Consult doctor for liver disease, glaucoma, urinary retention/prostate enlargement, or if symptoms persist. Not recommended for self-use in very young children without medical advice. Stop and seek care if allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty) occur.

Do not take Zyrtec if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. The sedating antihistamines are not suitable for very young children, or for people with glaucoma or an enlarged prostate, without medical advice.

Interactions with other medicines

Alcohol and other CNS depressants (increased drowsiness), sedatives/sleeping pills, opioids, benzodiazepines; theophylline (may reduce clearance slightly); other antihistamines

How to store Zyrtec Syrup

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Zyrtec Syrup

Try giving the medicines at the same time each day, to help you remember. Your child may feel sleepy or dizzy after each dose of Zyrtec Syrup. If this happens, make your child sit or lie down and ask them to be careful while performing tasks that require mental focus. Avoid giving Zyrtec Syrup with fatty meals and fruit juice as both can reduce the absorption of the medicine. Dry mouth can occur as a side effect of taking Zyrtec Syrup. Taking sips of water may help. Zyrtec Syrup can trigger constipation in your child. Give plenty of fluids and a fiber-rich diet to your child. Zyrtec Syrup should be avoided in children who are less than 4 years of age as there is a risk of respiratory distress. Your doctor has prescribed Zyrtec Syrup to help relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes. It is okay to take Zyrtec Syrup with most other medications as it has few drug interactions. Compared to other similar medications, Zyrtec Syrup is less likely to cause sleepiness. Stop taking Zyrtec Syrup at least three days before taking an allergy test as it can affect the test results.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd

Therapeutic class:

Anti-allergic (Antihistamine)

Drug class:

Second-generation H1 antihistamine

Chemical class:

Diphenylmethanes