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Medical Video: Cetirizine or Zyrtec Medication Information (dosing, side effects, patient counseling)
Cetirizine is a non-prescription antihistamine drug used to treat symptoms of allergies and flu, such as sneezing, itchy skin, runny eyes, or runny nose. Along with the effects of the drugs needed, cetirizine can cause some unwanted side effects. Although not all side effects will occur, if one of the cetirizine side effects settles or becomes more troubling after you take the drug, consult your doctor for more information.
What side effects can be experienced due to cetirizine?
Mild cetirizine side effects due to short-term use, may include:
- Dizzy
- Drowsiness
- Feeling tired (tired)
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Insomnia (reported based on permanent use of a combination of cetirizine hydrochloride-pseudoephedrine hydrochloride)
- Sore throat, abdominal pain - common in children aged 2-11 years
Call your doctor immediately if you experience more serious cetirizine side effects, such as:
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- The body weakens, vibrates uncontrollably, or sleeplessness (insomnia)
- Can't rest at all, hyperactive
- Confusion
- Vision problems
- Less or no urination at all
Drug overdose due to long-term cetirizine side effects
If you suspect you have a cetirizine overdose, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor will decide what steps, if any, to take.
One symptom of drug overdose is an increase in the intensity of the side effects you experience (from the description above). Other side effects of overdose include confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, pain, dilated pupils, itching, anxiety, weakness like getting drugged, drowsiness, fainting, abnormal heart rate, tremors, difficulty breathing, and urinary retention .
The long-term side effects of cetirizine are believed to strengthen a child's immunity to new allergens
A small study from San Martino Hospital Italy, published in the journal European Annals of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, reported that cetirizine drug therapy carried out every day for three years can reduce allergy symptoms, use of prescription allergy drugs, and develop sensitivity of new allergens in children children who are monosensitized (sensitive to only one allergen).
Side effects of cetirizine from long-term use are reported not to affect the behavior or learning process in children who have atopic eczema.
