CETIRIZINE AND PSEUDOEPHEDRINE (Oral route) - se-TI-ra-zeen hye-droe-KLOR-ide, soo-doe-e-FED-rin hye-droe-KLOR-ide.(Drug overview)

Brand names in the United States --

* Zyrtec-D

Dosage forms --

* Tablet, Extended Release

Therapeutic classification: Antihistamine/Decongestant Combination

Pharmacologic classification: Cetirizine

Chemical classification: Cetirizine

DESCRIPTION OF USE

Cetirizine and pseudoephedrine is a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant used to treat the symptoms of seasonal or yearly allergies. Antihistamines work by preventing the effects of a substance called histamine, which is produced by the body. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Decongestants produce a narrowing of blood vessels. This leads to clearing of nasal congestion, but it may also cause an increase in blood pressure in patients who have high blood pressure. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies --

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For …