Uses
Zyrtec is primarily used in the treatment of allergies, hives, and most symptoms of allergic inflammation.

How to take Zyrtec
Zyrtec comes in tablet and syrup form. Chewable tablets for oral intake come in 5mg and 10mg dosage strengths. The syrup contains cetirizine hydrochloride at 1 mg/mL concentration. The medication is normally taken once a day, with a glass of water, and with or without prior food intake. The prescription requirements on the label should be followed carefully; it is advisable that intake of the drug is done under the supervision of a doctor.

Side effects
More serious side effects of the intake of Zyrtec include hives, a difficulty in breathing, swelling of the tongue, lips, and the face, and closing of the throat. Seek immediate medical help if such symptoms are experienced. Mild adverse effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue; a dry mouth, and mild to moderate headaches. If these are experienced, users are advised to continue use of the drug, but not without an initial consultation with a doctor.

Drug precautions
Potential users should inform their physician of any condition of liver and kidney disease; in such instances the dose may be reduced or regulated during the duration of the intake of the drug. Zyrtec is unlikely to cause any harm to an unborn baby, but conceiving and breastfeeding women should undergo initial medical consultation first before taking the drug. Users who are over sixty years old may be more susceptible to adverse effects; they may need a lower dosage prescription.

Drug interactions
Zyrtec may interact with sleep and anxiety medications such as alprazolam, triazolam diazepam, temazepam, and chlordiazepoxide; drugs for depression, including amitriptyline, paroxetine, doxepin, sertraline, nortriptyline, and fluoxetine; medications for allergy, cough, and cold; and other medications with relaxing and drowsy aftereffects.

Overdose
Users are advised to seek immediate medical help in such cases. Weakness, drowsiness, and confusion are possible symptoms of an overdose of Zyrtec.

Missed dose
In case of a missed dose, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. But if the next one is almost due, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next one should be takes as is with the regular schedule. Double doses of Zyrtec are strongly discouraged.

Storage
Store at room temperatures (20-25°C), away from moisture and heat.