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IMPORTANT
NOTE: The following information is intended
to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and
judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate
that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective
for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
using this drug.
CETIRIZINE - ORAL TABLET
(set-EYE-rizz-een)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Zyrtec
USES: This medication
is an antihistamine which provides relief of allergy
symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching
eyes, sneezing, itching and hives.
HOW TO USE: Take
this medication by mouth once a day as directed. May
be taken with or without food. Do not increase your
dose or take this more often than directed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness,
sleepiness, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, increased
appetite, and nausea may occur. These effects should
subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If
they continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop any of these serious
effects while taking this medication: chest pain,
rash, trouble breathing. This medication may cause
dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution engaging in activities
requiring alertness. If you notice other effects not
listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell
your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver
or kidney disease, asthma, any blood disorders, any
any allergies. This medication can increase sensitivity
to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective
clothing and a sunscreen when outdoors. Limit intake
of alcohol to prevent excessive drowsiness. Tell your
doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication.
This medication is excreted into human breast milk.
Discuss the risks of breast-feeding with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell
your doctor of any over-the-counter and prescription
medication you may take including: sedatives, tranquilizers,
narcotic pain relievers, sleep medicine, drugs for
anxiety, barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), psychiatric
medicines, other antihistamines. Do not start or stop
any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose
is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include sleepiness, shortness of breath, clumsiness,
hallucinations, and seizures.
NOTES: This medication
can affect results of allergy tests. Remind your doctor
you are taking this drug if you are scheduled for
any tests.
MISSED DOSE: If you
miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not
take it if it is near the time for the next dose,
instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store between
59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from
heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
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