The Physicians’ Desktop Reference describes Zyrtec as an antihistamine that treats the symptoms of allergies. The generic name for Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. Antihistamines work by blocking the histamines the body makes, cutting off allergic reactions. Histamines cause symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes and runny nose. They can also cause sneezing and headache. Many people suffer from allergies and are on an antihistamine to help deal with these symptoms. Cetirizine is one of the most common antihistamines prescribed by doctors.
Drowsiness
One of the most common symptoms of any antihistamine is drowsiness. Because of this, people need to be cautious after taking cetirizine when driving or operating heavy machinery. If it is the first time this medication is being taken, a person shouldn’t drive at all until he knows how the medicine will affect him. If this symptom is strong, the medicine can be taken at bedtime. Even though this medicine is marketed as a non-drowsy medication, there may still be drowsiness associated with taking it.
Dry Mouth
The Mayo Clinic states that dry mouth can be prevalent with cetirizine, and there are a few things that can be done to relieve these symptoms. One could suck on hard candy, or eat ice chips regularly to keep the mouth from becoming too dry. Pregnant women may have a harder time with persistent dry mouth when taking cetirizine.
Stomach Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, dyspepsia is a common side effect of cetirizine. Dyspepsia is a feeling of uneasiness in the stomach that can be described as a full feeling. It can also feel like there is gas bubbling in the stomach at any moment, although there is no gas being released. It can bring on feelings of nausea or a general feeling of being unwell. Antacids can help relieve this problem if it becomes too much to handle.
Sleep Problems
It is possible for cetirizine to cause problems with sleep patterns. This could include trouble winding down at night and finally falling asleep. It could also include waking throughout the night. These symptoms should subside as soon as the body becomes accustomed to taking the medication.
Headache
Health Scout states that headache is a common side effect with cetirizine. The good news is that once the body becomes accustomed to having this medication on a regular basis, the headaches will usually subside. Until then, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to treat them effectively.
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