Description
1. What Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets Are and What They Are Used For
Cetirizine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine. It helps relieve symptoms of hayfever and other allergic conditions. These symptoms include sneezing, an itchy or runny nose, and skin rashes like chronic nettle rash and idiopathic urticaria. It is suitable for adults and children over 6 years of age.
2. What You Need to Know Before You Take Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets
Do Not Take If:
- You are allergic to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any piperazine derivatives.
- You have severe kidney failure that requires dialysis.
Warnings and Precautions:
- Consult your doctor if you have kidney or bladder problems, epilepsy, or if you are going to have allergy tests.
- It is not recommended for children under 6 years old.
Other Medicines:
- Let your doctor or pharmacist know about any other medications you are taking.
Food and Alcohol:
- Food does not affect how this medicine is absorbed. However, avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- Avoid using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
3. How to Take Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets
- Adults and children 12 years and over: Take 10 mg once daily (1 tablet). If you feel drowsy, you might want to take 5 mg twice daily instead.
- Children 6 to 12 years: Take 5 mg twice daily (half a tablet two times a day).
- Renal Impairment: Adjust the dose as advised by your doctor.
Overdose:
- Seek medical help if you overdose. Symptoms may include drowsiness, agitation, and a rapid heart rate.
Missed Dose:
- Do not take a double dose. Instead, take your next dose as scheduled.
4. Possible Side Effects
- Common: Sleepiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, fatigue, and cold-like symptoms.
- Uncommon: Agitation, unusual skin sensations, stomach pain, and rash.
- Rare: Depression, hallucinations, convulsions, rapid heart rate, and liver function issues.
- Very Rare: Severe allergic reactions, low blood platelet levels, fainting, and unusual movements.
5. How to Store Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use after the expiry date on the package.
- Dispose of any unused medicines as your pharmacist advises.
6. Contents of the Pack and Other Information
- Ingredients: Each tablet contains 10 mg cetirizine hydrochloride, lactose, and other excipients.
- Appearance: White, circular tablets with a breakline, marked “C”.
