Cetirizine 5mg/5ml

Cetirizine 5mg/5ml — Uses and Benefits

Cetirizine 5mg/5ml is used to treat allergic conditions caused by release of histamine in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny or blocked nose)
• Itchy, watery, red eyes due to allergy
• Skin allergies such as hives (urticaria) and itching
• Allergic reactions causing skin rash

HOW IT WORKS

• Cetirizine blocks histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction
• By blocking histamine, it reduces sneezing, itching, swelling and redness
• It works within a short time of taking the dose and its effect lasts through the day

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a cure for allergies, only controls symptoms
• It does not treat bacterial or viral infections
• It is not meant for asthma attacks or breathing emergencies
• It should not be used as a sleep aid, even though it may cause drowsiness in some people

How to Use Cetirizine 5mg/5ml

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine by mouth exactly as advised by your doctor
• Use the measuring cup or spoon provided with the bottle for accurate dosing, not a regular kitchen spoon
• Shake the bottle well before use if instructed on the label
• Can be taken with or without food
• Usually taken once daily, preferably in the evening, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not increase the dose or frequency on your own, especially in children and elderly patients

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store below 25°C, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Discard any unused liquid after the expiry date or as mentioned on the label

Cetirizine 5mg/5ml — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Tiredness or fatigue

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or stomach upset
• Sore throat
• Dizziness
• Restlessness, especially in children

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
• Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cetirizine 5mg/5ml — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available on prescription in India, and children's use especially should be guided by a doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cetirizine, hydroxyzine or any other ingredient in this medicine
• Have severe kidney impairment without medical guidance
• Are a child below the age advised on the label without doctor's approval

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have epilepsy or a seizure disorder
• Have difficulty passing urine, such as due to an enlarged prostate
• Are elderly, as you may be more sensitive to drowsiness

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antihistamines or cold and cough medicines
• Sedatives, sleeping pills or tranquillisers
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness
• Theophylline, used for asthma or breathing problems

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause drowsiness in some people, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can I give this to my child?

Only give this to children in the dose and age group advised by a doctor.

Can I take this with food?

• Yes, it can be taken with or without food as per your doctor's advice.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.