Zyrtec Side Effects (Cetirizine)

Zyrtec is an antihistamine medication used primarily for the treatment of allergies and hay fever. Its generic name is cetirizine. It produces most of its allergy reducing effects through it action at the H1 receptor. It is categorized as a second-generation antihistamine. When first produced it was not available without a prescription in the United States and Canada. Now it is available over the counter without needing a prescription. It has a relatively low bioavailability meaning a low portion of the medication passes through the blood brain barrier. This results in less side effects that are typical of other antihistamines such as drowsiness or fatigue being experienced with Zyrtec. For this reason many can enjoy Zyrtec's benefits during the day while still staying alert. However, those that choose to take Zyrtec should be aware of its potential side effects.

Side effects symptoms of Zyrtec

Though it does not cause the amounts of drowsiness as other antihistamines Zyrtec still can have the unwanted side effect in many of producing drowsiness or fatigue. Since everyone's body responds differently to medications you should avoid driving the first couple of times taking cetirizine in case drowsiness does occur. Taking Zyrtec can also lead to a stomach ache developing. In order to reduce the chances of a stomach ache developing it is recommended to take Zyrtec with a small amount of food. This will reduce the chance of cetirizine irritating the lining of your stomach. Food also minimally effects the absorption of Zyrtec so taking it with food will not effect the benefits received from taking it either. Other side effects which are commonly experienced when taking Zyrtec is dry mouth and urine retention. To avoid dry mouth it is recommended to stay adequately hydrated while taking Zyrtec. If used in conjunction with a decongestant dehydration may occur as well. It is important in situations where cetirizine is taken alongside a decongestant to drink more than your usual amount of liquids.

Zyrtec and alcohol

When on any sort of medication it is always best to avoid alcohol. Though combining Zyrtec with alcohol is not extremely dangerous it is not recommended. Combing alcohol with Zyrtec is more likely to result in experiencing adverse side effects from both substances. The greatest concern when combining alcohol and Zyrtec is an increase in drowsiness or loss of coordination. On its own Zyrtec has little effect upon the central nervous system, but when combined with alcohol it may exhibit more of a depressive effect upon the central nervous system. Combining the two can also lead to increased chance of irritating the stomach or gastrointestinal system. This is due to both being known to cause stomach irritation in certain people. Combining the two only increases the chance that stomach irritation will develop.

Zyrtec sleep side effects

In rare cases taking Zyrtec can effect the sleep quality of those who take it. The main side effect it can have is inducing frightening or vivid dreams in those who take it. It can also increase the likelihood of sleep paralysis occurring. Those who already experience intense and frightening dreams or sleep paralysis should avoid taking Zyrtec in the evening to minimize these risks.