CETIRIZINE (Cetirizine dihydrochloride, Cetirizine hydrochloride)

• It is important to keep a regular check-up schedule.

Why is this medicine prescribed to you?
Cetirizine is prescribed to treat allergy and allergic
conditions such as allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the
nasal passages caused by allergens in the air) and allergic
skin conditions.
How do you use it?
Use cetirizine exactly as directed by your doctor for it
to be effective.
• Cetirizine may be taken with or without food; with food
or milk if it causes stomach upset.
• If you forget to use this medicine on schedule, use it
immediately as you remember. However, if it is already
time for the next dose, just proceed with your next
regular dose schedule.
• Unless advised by your doctor, do not double or adjust
dosage, or stop use even if you feel well.
What do you need to know before you use it?
• It is important that your doctor or pharmacist
is informed:
- if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or
breast-feeding;
- if you have any of the following conditions: allergy,
liver problem, kidney problem, prostate problem,
heart problem, glaucoma epilepsy or seizure disorder;
- if you are using any other prescription or over-the-
counter (OTC) medicines, especially medicines that
make you sleepy, and dietary or herbal supplements.
• Alcohol must be avoided while taking this medicine.
Your doctor may prescribe tests to check and monitor
your progress while under treatment with this medicine.
• If you need to undergo surgery or dental procedure,
you must first inform your doctor or dentist that you are
using this medicine before going through it.
• Side effects may possibly occur as with most medicines.
You may not experience any side effect; however, if you
experience any of these side effects with cetirizine,
you have to inform your doctor immediately, especially
if they become severe or persistent: nausea, diarrhea,
constipation, dry mouth, sore throat, cough, headache,
dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, tiredness, restlessness,
hyperactivity, confusion, sleeping problem, fast or
irregular heartbeat, vision problems, less frequent
urination or not at all, shaking and allergic reactions
such as hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of the
face, lips, tongue or throat.
• If you experience dizziness, drowsiness or vision
problems, you should not drive, operate machinery
or perform any activity which will need you to be alert
or to see clearly.
• If your mouth gets dry while on cetirizine, drinking
water, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on hard
candy may help.
• The side effects mentioned here are not complete and
others may occur. If you observe other side effects or
reactions, you have to call your doctor for advice.
• You must not share your medicine with others even if
you have the same disease symptoms.
How do you handle it before and after use?
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and
moisture. Keep the medicine out of children's reach.
Discard it properly when it is expired or no longer needed.

This pharmacy information service of Mercury Drug Corporation contains only basic drug
information and must not be relied upon as substitute for professional medical care. It is intended
to be used as supplementary information to consultation with your doctor. Mercury Drug
www.mercurydrug.com
Corporation shall not be responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or
Tel: 911 5071-87 misuse of the information contained herein for any final treatment decisions or outcomes.