Cetirizine

What it is used for

reduces hives and relieves itching due to hives (urticaria). This product will not prevent hives or an allergic skin reaction from occurring.

How to take it

For 5 mg:

For 10 mg:

While you are taking it

• drowsiness may occur
• avoid alcoholic drinks
• alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness
• be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery
• in rare cases, you may experience itching after stopping cetirizine. Consult your healthcare provider if this happens.

Side effects, and when to stop

• an allergic reaction to this product occurs. Seek medical help right away.
• symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment.
• the hives have lasted more than 6 weeks.

Who should not take it

• to prevent hives from any known cause such as:
  • foods
  • insect stings
  • medicines
  • latex or rubber gloves

because this product will not stop hives from occurring. Avoiding the cause of your hives is the only way to prevent them. Hives can sometimes be serious. If you do not know the cause of your hives, see your doctor for a medical exam. Your doctor may be able to help you find a cause.

• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine.

What to say before you start

• liver or kidney disease. Your doctor should determine if you need a different dose.
• hives that are an unusual color, look bruised or blistered
• hives that do not itch

taking tranquilizers or sedatives.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• if breast-feeding: not recommended
• if pregnant: ask a health professional before use.

Warnings

Severe Allergy Warning: Get emergency help immediately if you have hives along with any of the following symptoms:

• trouble swallowing
• dizziness or loss of consciousness
• swelling of tongue
• swelling in or around mouth
• trouble speaking
• drooling
• wheezing or problems breathing

These symptoms may be signs of anaphylactic shock. This condition can be life threatening if not treated by a health professional immediately. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may occur when hives first appear or up to a few hours later. Not a Substitute for Epinephrine. If your doctor has prescribed an epinephrine injector for "anaphylaxis" or severe allergy symptoms that could occur with your hives, never use this product as a substitute for the epinephrine injector. If you have been prescribed an epinephrine injector, you should carry it with you at all times.

Keeping it away from children

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. [1-800-222-1222]

Active ingredient (in each tablet)

For 5 mg: Cetirizine hydrochloride USP 5 mg For 10 mg: Cetirizine hydrochloride USP 10 mg

Other information

• store between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F)
• TAMPER EVIDENT: DO NOT USE IF FOIL INNER SEAL IMPRINTED WITH "SEALED FOR YOUR PROTECTION" IS BROKEN OR MISSING.