Best Zyrtec Alternative

Cetirizine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the histamine (H-1) receptors on cells. It’s a non-sedating drug that’s considered to be part of second-generation antihistamines like Claritin and Allegra.

The allergy medicine offers a quick relief solution to most allergy symptoms. It effectively treats allergic rhinitis and can help reduce the effects of allergy symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes. Since Cetirizine is an OTC (over-the-counter) drug, you don’t need a prescription from a licensed medical professional.

The best way to use the drug is to swallow it with a glass of water. You can also take it with food, but it’s best to take it on an empty stomach. Keep in mind that, at times, the medicine can take some time to take effect and reduce your symptoms.

More importantly, if you need to give Cetirizine to children or anyone else, there may be some need for special care. It’s best to discuss the situation and get some medical advice from your healthcare professional.

How Does Cetirizine in ValuMeds Allergy Relief Work?

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Cetirizine is an allergy medication for seasonal allergies, hay fever, and vasomotor rhinitis. It can also be used to provide relief for various cold symptoms and other conditions, such as urticaria (hives), anaphylaxis, allergic conjunctivitis, dermatitis, and angioedema.

Cetirizine works by blocking histamine, a natural substance in your body that’s created during an allergic reaction. The drug works by halting the production of histamine; that’s why it’s classified in the antihistamine category.

ValuMeds Allergy Relief is one of the most well-known brand names for Cetirizine.

Uses of Cetirizine/Zyrtec Generic

While Cetirizine is generally used for allergy relief, it’s best to better understand its uses. The following are the primary uses of Cetirizine.

• Seasonal Allergies – Cetirizine works against the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis caused by allergens, such as tree pollens, grass, and ragweed. It works as an allergy relief for both adults and children two years of age and older. The symptoms that can be treated effectively include a runny nose, tearing, redness of the eyes, itchy eyes, and itchy nose.
• Perennial Allergies – Cetirizine also works to provide relief from symptoms caused by perennial allergic rhinitis – it’s caused by allergens, such as molds, dust mites, and animal dander in both adults and children six months of age and above. The symptoms that can be treated include a runny nose, sneezing, tearing, postnatal discharge, itchy nose, and itchy eyes.
• Itching and Hives – Cetirizine can also help in the treatment of various skin manifestations of chronic hives in both adults and children six months of age and above. The active ingredient of the drug can help reduce the severity, frequency, and duration of hives while also significantly reducing itching.

The dosage for Zyrtec Generic/Cetirizine is based on your medical condition, age, and usual response to treatment. If your allergy symptoms do not improve after three days of treatment, or if they worsen, you should contact your healthcare provider and seek medical help.

Side Effects of Cetirizine/Zyrtec Generic

While Zyrtec Generic does not have any serious side effects, you can still see some common side effects. They may be felt by anyone, depending on your current situation. The adverse effects of Zyrtec Generic that you may notice can include the following.

• Drowsiness – is the most common side effect of using Zyrtec Generic.
• Fatigue – is often experienced by some adults as a result of the drowsiness.
• Dizziness – usually comes if your body is naturally low on iron.
• Tired Feeling – is the result of the extra fatigue you may be feeling.
• Sleepiness – is usually only experienced by around 14% of patients.
• Sore Throat – is unusual but can happen in some cases.
• Dry Mouth – and sore throat usually happen together.
• Nausea – is usually experienced after extreme drowsiness.
• Cough – is among the most common side effects.
• Headache – can be felt if you’re physically exhausted or have a sensitivity to illumination sources.
• Constipation – can be a result of improper eating.
• Vomiting – is a common occurrence for children.
• Stomach Pain – may be felt by children in some cases.

Additional Side Effects

While common side effects may be felt by everybody, some may get rare and serious side effects. These are usually not the direct result of the drug itself but may be caused by any other medical issue (like kidney disease), a weak immune system, or bad drug interactions. In any case, the following side effects may be observed by some people.

• Extreme Malaise – may happen when common side effects have a more severe impact.
• Nose Bleeds – can happen for various reasons, so it’s best to get it checked immediately.
• Rapid Swelling – may happen due to a catalytic allergic reaction.
• Low Blood Pressure – may happen in older adults.
• Hallucinations – may happen in extremely rate conditions.
• Extreme Tremors – may be a result of an adverse reaction to thyroid disease.
• Tongue Discoloration – may be more prominent, especially if you smoke or use chewable tobacco.

While allergy medication is usually developed to minimize any risks of side effects, it’s always best to get some additional information from a medical professional.

Precautions for Using Zyrtec Generic

It’s important to keep in mind that you may have to take some precautions when using Zyrtec Generic because of the Cetirizine Hydrochloride. The following are some of the warnings and precautions for Cetirizine.

• Some people may have a hypersensitivity to Cetirizine or hydroxyzine. Avoid the medicine if you are allergic to Cetirizine or any of the ingredients in Zyrtec Generic.
• In case of an overdose, get immediate medical help or contact the Poison Control Center.
• It’s best to avoid the use of any sedatives, tranquilizers, or alcohol to minimize the risk of drowsiness.
• Cetirizine can be used in pregnancy, but it’s best to seek the opinion of a medical professional.
• Since Cetirizine is excreted in breast milk, it’s better to avoid taking the drug while breastfeeding.
• It’s best to avoid taking Zyrtec Generic if you’re taking another sedating antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).

In rare cases, Cetirizine can cause central nervous depression; therefore, it’s best to avoid mentally straining activities during use.