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Cetirizine

Information about Cetirizine

Cetirizine Uses

Cetirizine is used in the treatment of allergic conditions.

How Cetirizine works

Cetirizine is an antihistaminic medication. It treats allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking the effects of a chemical messenger (histamine) in the body.

Common side effects of Cetirizine

Sleepiness, Dizziness

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Love Sharma

PhD (Pharmacology), PGDPRA

Reviewed By

Dr. Varun Gupta

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated

27 Sep 2021 | 08:33 PM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Cetirizine

Expert advice for Cetirizine

Your doctor has prescribed Cetirizine to help relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes.
It's much less likely to make you feel sleepy than other similar medications.
It is okay to take Cetirizine with most other medications as it has few drug interactions.
Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Cetirizine can cause dizziness and sleepiness.
Do not drink alcohol while taking Cetirizine as it may cause increased sleepiness.
Stop taking Cetirizine at least three days before taking an allergy test as it can affect the test results.

Frequently asked questions for Cetirizine

Cetirizine

Q. Does Cetirizine make you tired and drowsy?

Yes, Cetirizine can make you feel tired, sleepy, and weak. If you have these symptoms, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Q. Is Cetirizine a steroid? What is it used for?

Cetirizine is an anti-allergic medication, not a steroid. It relieves the symptoms of allergy. It is used to relieve runny nose, sneezing and redness, itching, and watering of the eyes caused by hay fever or seasonal allergies. It also relieves similar symptoms caused due to allergies to substances, such as dust mites, animal dander, and mold. It is also used to treat symptoms of hives, including itching and rash.

Q. How long does it take for Cetirizine to work?

You will notice an improvement within an hour of taking Cetirizine. However, it may take a little longer to notice the full benefits.

Q. Can I take Cetirizine and Fexofenadine together?

Sometimes the doctor may advise you to take two different antihistamines together if you are being treated for a severe itchy rash. If you are taking Cetirizine during the daytime, your doctor may prescribe another antihistamine for the night which causes sleepiness, especially if the itch makes it difficult for you to sleep. Do not take two antihistamines together unless recommended by your doctor.

Q. For how long should I continue Cetirizine?

The duration for which the medicine needs to be taken depends on the problem being treated. If you are taking it for an insect bite, you may need it for a day or two. Similarly, if you are taking it to prevent symptoms of chronic allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nose) or chronic urticaria, you may need to take Cetirizine for a longer time. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about the duration of using Cetirizine.

Q. Is it safe to take Cetirizine daily for a long time?

Cetirizine is safe if used as prescribed by your doctor. Moreover, it is unlikely to harm you if you take it for a long time. But, it is best to take Cetirizine for only as long as you need it.