Zyrtec (Cetirizine)

Brand name: Zyrtec, Reactine, Cetzine
Generic name: Cetirizine Hydrochloride, Cetirizine HCl
Used for: Antihistamine, used to treat seasonal allergies
Availability: Brand, Pfizer Zyrtec tablets in 5mg, 10mg, 20mg; generic Cetirizine 10mg

How Cetirizine Works
Cetirizine is an antihistamine, but more specifically categorized as a histamine receptor antagonist. It is primarily used to relieve seasonal allergy symptoms in adults and children over 2 years old. Cetirizine will provide relief from sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, tearing and itchy eyes. It can also be used to treat rashes or hives associated with allergic reactions on the skin. Cetirizine works by blocking chemicals in the body responsible for the symptoms of allergies, it usually will begin to work within 20 minutes of taking the pill and you should experience 24 hour relief. It is important to take this medication as directed, read the instructions or speak to a pharmacist. The recommended dose for individuals over 12 years of age is 5mg or 10mg once daily depending on the severity of the symptoms. Cetirizine will make some drowsy therefore do not operate machinery or vehicles until you know how your body will react.

Generic Zyrtec vs Brand Zyrtec
There are very slight differences between brand and generic Zyrtec; both medications contain the medical ingredient Cetirizine. Cetirizine 10mg and 20mg are marketed by Pfizer as Zyrtec in the USA only; Cetirizine manufactured in Canada is called Reactine and Zyrtec manufactured in India by UCB is called Cetzine. Your order of Zyrtec may have an alternate name depending on its country of origin; an alternate name does not make the medication a generic. Generic Zyrtec or Cetirizine is manufactured outside of a Pfizer facility; this is the biggest difference between Zyrtec and Cetirizine. Generic Cetirizine and Zyrtec are identical in dose, strength, safety, efficacy, chemical makeup and therapeutic use. We currently have the brand that comes from India and Canada and the generic from India, it may come from other countries around the world.

Cetirizine Possible side effects
When taking Cetirizine you may experience the following side effects:
• abdominal pain
• coughing
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• fatigue
• irritated or sore throat
• nosebleeds

If you experience side effects other than those listed or if the side effects are persistent speak to your pharmacist for advice; discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor before taking Cetirizine.

Cetirizine Guidelines
Before you start taking this medication inform your doctor of all medical conditions you may have and any medications you are currently taking. Some health factors may affect the way you should take this medication, therefore take exactly as directed. People with reduced kidney or liver function should be carefully monitored as this medication may affect their conditions. Pregnant women should not use Cetirizine unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Breast-feeding women should know that Cetirizine passes through breast milk and may affect your baby.