Although weight loss is a side effect of many medications, it is not a side effect of Zyrtec-D. In fact, some people may even gain weight while taking the medication. If you are noticing changes to your weight and believe it is because of Zyrtec-D, call your doctor for advice. While it is typically safe to try to lose weight while taking this medication, always talk to your doctor if you have any specific questions or concerns.
About Zyrtec-D
Zyrtec-D is an over-the-counter allergy medication. It reduces the swelling of nasal passages and temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure. Although you do not need a prescription for this medication, drugstores and supermarkets keep the medication behind the pharmacy counter because it contains pseudoephedrine. Although specific dosages may vary, most people take one Zyrtec-D tablet every 12 hours. Zyrtec-D pills should be swallowed whole, as breaking or chewing the tablet may cause too much of the medicine to be released. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you have any specific questions about taking this medication. Pseudoephedrine has the potential for abuse and may cause adverse and serious side effects when consumed in excess.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Zyrtec-D include insomnia, fatigue, sore throat, headache and nausea. Gastrointestinal side effects may also occur, which may include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, gastric irritation and loss of appetite. Although weight loss is not a common side effect, it may potentially occur in some people who suffer severe cases of gastrointestinal side effects from this drug. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual or bothersome side effects while taking this medication.
Serious side effects, although rare, include dark urine, trouble urinating, persistent tiredness, uncontrollable shaking, tremors, jaundice, seizures, sleeplessness, fast or irregular heartbeat, weakness, and mood or mental changes. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these serious side effects occur.
Losing Weight on Zyrtec-D
You can use several strategies to lose weight while taking Zyrtec-D. Figure out how many calories your body typically burns in one day. This number depends on a variety of factors, including your age, current weight and height, activity level, gender, and medical condition. Use an online calculator or ask your doctor if you are not sure how many calories you need. Once you determine the typical amount of calories you burn in a day, watch your calorie intake to stay under this amount. Concentrate on eating nutrient-rich, low-calorie foods. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free dairy products, fish and lean meats are typically good choices. You can also increase your activity level or exercise routine to burn even more calories. If you still have difficulty losing weight on your own, ask your doctor for other weight loss treatments that may be appropriate for you
Warning
Avoid taking diet pills while taking Zyrtec-D. Diet pills typically contain stimulant ingredients. Stimulants are dangerous to take with pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient of Zyrtec-D. You should also report all your current medications and supplements to a doctor before beginning to take Zyrtec-D to avoid potential drug interactions.
