According to Drugs.com, cetirizine HCL is a drug used to treat the symptoms of colds and allergies. These include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny noses. It can also be used to treat the itching and swelling that accompanies hives. While many patients tolerate it well, some may experience its accompanying side effects.
Common Side Effects
According to eMedTV.com, 2 to 13 percent of patients taking cetirizine report experiencing its most common side effects. You may become drowsy, experience a dry mouth, become dizzy, suffer from fatigue or develop a sore throat.
Common Side Effects in Children
Children may experience different side effects than adults. According to eMedTV, the most commonly seen side effects of cetirizine in children include headaches, stomach pain, drowsiness, diarrhea, sore throat, coughing and nose bleeds.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects also may accompany this medication. Drugs.com recommends contacting your doctor immediately if you experience breathing problems, such as wheezing, high blood pressure or difficulty passing urine. You may also become confused, suffer from tachycardia (rapid heart rate), anxiety or heart palpitations (a forceful and rapid heartbeat).
Rare Side Effects
The following are considered rare because they occur in less than 2 percent of patients who take this medication. They include loss of appetite, migraines, gas, the onset of a urinary tract infection, ear infections, the onset of arthritis, a decreased libido (sex drive) and loss of your hair. You may also develop hemorrhoids, suffer from a ringing in your ears, become dehydrated, experience muscle pain, develop acne and suffer from weight gain.
Signs of an Overdose
Call 911 if you become restless, nervous or extremely drowsy. These are all indicators that you have taken too much cetirizine and have overdosed.
Signs of an Allergic Reaction
With any medication, you stand the chance of suffering an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include the onset of hives or an inexplicable rash, itching, swelling of your lips, throat, face or tongue and having a difficult time breathing. If you experience any of these, Drugs.com recommends seeking emergency medical attention.
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