Zyrtec (Generic)

Generic Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Generic Zyrtec is used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or runny nose. Generic Zyrtec is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by chronic urticaria (hives).

Use Generic Zyrtec exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

You may take Generic Zyrtec with or without food.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

Do not swallow the Generic Zyrtec dissolving tablet whole.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Generic Zyrtec: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;
• weakness, tremors (uncontrolled shaking), or sleep problems (insomnia);
• severe restless feeling, hyperactivity;
• confusion;
• problems with vision; or
• urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious Generic Zyrtec side effects may include:

• dizziness, drowsiness;
• tired feeling;
• dry mouth;
• sore throat, cough;
• nausea, constipation; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Generic Zyrtec may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of Generic Zyrtec.

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as other cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Generic Zyrtec.

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Generic Zyrtec. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.