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|Zyrtec-D

Zyrtec-D

Generic name: Cetirizine hydrochloride, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride
Brand names: Zyrtec-D

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, Zyrtec-D 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 Zyrtec-D.

This drug is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zyrtec-D

Avoid Zyrtec-D if you"ve taken an MAO inhibitor such as Nardil or Parnate anytime within the preceding 14 days. Also avoid combining Zyrtec-D with alcohol, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, sedatives, sleeping pills, or pain-relieving narcotics; they increase the likelihood of drowsiness.

If Zyrtec-D is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zyrtec-D with the following:

Certain drugs used to treat high blood pressure, including Aldomet, Inversine, and reserpine
Digitalis
Drugs that tend to raise blood pressure
High doses of theophylline (Theo-Dur)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, check with your doctor before taking Zyrtec-D. The possibility of harm to the developing baby has not be ruled out.

Both of the active agents in Zyrtec-D make their way into human breast milk. It is not recommended for nursing mothers.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The recommended dose for adults and children 12 years of age and older is 1 tablet twice daily. If you have kidney or liver problems, your doctor may recommend only 1 dose per day.

Overdosage

An overdose of Zyrtec-D can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical care immediately.

• Symptoms of Zyrtec-D overdose may include:
  Chest pain, coma, convulsions, delusions, drowsiness, giddiness, hallucinations, headache, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, irritability, muscle weakness, nausea, palpitations, respiratory failure, restlessness, sweating, thirst, urination problems, vomiting