What is Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) used for?

Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) is a type of drug known as an antihistamine. It is used to treat the symptoms of allergies such as itching, sneezing, hives, watery eyes and runny nose. A chemical known as histamine is responsible for causing these symptoms. Histamine is produced by your body during an allergic reaction. By reducing the chemical histamine in the body, this drug helps to relieve the symptoms of allergies.

How should I use Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride)?

If your physician has prescribed Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) to you, you should take it exactly as directed. Sometimes adult patients are prescribed one tablet daily, however the dosage varies depending on the patient's medical condition. To achieve optimum results, you should take this medication at the same time every day. Never exceed the dosage prescribed to you.

What are the side effects of Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride)?

Some side effects which may occur as a result of taking Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) include:

• Dryness in the mouth
• Fatigue
• Coughing or sore throat
• Headache
• Nausea

Consult your physician immediately if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you notice severe restlessness, tremors, confusion, unusually fast heartbeat, problems with vision or changes in urination habits.

Please Note

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Alerid (Cetirizine Hydrochloride). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, especially kidney or liver disease, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

This medication cannot prevent serious allergic reactions from occurring. If your physician has prescribed an epinephrine injector to you, you should continue to carry it with you at all times.

If you are allergic to hydroxyzine or levocetirizine, you should inform your physician before taking this medication.

If you are using this medication to treat hives, consult your physician if your hives don't improve after 3 days, or if they have not healed completely within 6 weeks.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have any allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.