Antihistamines: Zyrtec

Zyrtec is a prescription medicine which uses cetirizine HC1 as its active ingredient. It is recommended for those who suffer from indoor and outdoor allergies, including seasonal, or perennial ones. Those who suffer from unknown or chronic hives are also prescribed this medication. Similar to some of the other popular prescription allergy medicines, this one also provides 24-hour relief from symptoms.

Zyrtec caters to young family members with its banana-grape flavored syrup and chewable tablets in grape flavor. Even infants as young as 6 months can use the formulas for children. Relief from indoor and outdoor allergies, as well as from hives is provided by the children's formulas. Children have reported mild stomach pain from the drug, while infants and toddlers have had some trouble sleeping or have experienced crankiness.

This allergy reliever comes in several forms besides the syrup and the purple, chewable tablets. Zyrtec-D 12 Hour is a white tablet and includes cetirizine, pseudoephedrine and HC1. All of the tablets have the product name, "Zrytec" engraved upon them. Most doses come in 5 or 10 mg. The 10 mg dosage is recommended for the relief of symptoms for 24 hours. Some people with asthma are unable to take certain antihistamines; however, Zyrtec has shown no adverse effects on these patients. The company does recommend that all conditions which one suffers from besides allergies are discussed with a doctor before taking the drug. Because this drug is prescription only, talking to a doctor about taking it will be required anyway. Just be sure to share with them any medications you take, even if they are over-the-counter. Conditions which should be discussed include hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. Anyone who is taking any MAOI inhibitor is advised not to take Zyrtec at all, unless it has been at least 14 days since their last dose of a MAOI medication. Pregnant or nursing women are sometimes advised not to take Zyrtec as well. Symptoms for adult users, or children over 12, have included dry mouth, drowsiness and a sore throat. However, these reactions were usually mild.

In general, prescription antihistamines are considered to cause less drowsiness than over-the-counter ones. Zyrtec is included as one of the well-known prescription medicines which will allow one to continue with their normal routine without feeling sleepy. This will vary from person to person, however. Another benefit to Zyrtec is that it is approved to relieve nasal congestion symptoms as well as indoor or outdoor allergies.