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Zyrtec Side Effects on the Prostate

Zyrtec is an over-the-counter antihistamine that treats allergies of the upper respiratory system. The active component is cetirizine hydrochloride, an H1-receptor antagonist that inhibits the production of histamines. Patients with prostate gland problems should avoid taking the Zyrtec-D formulation

  1. Indications

    • Zyrtec is used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis caused by pollen, ragweed, animal dander, dust mites and molds. It also is effective for treating sneezing, rhinorrhea, pruritus, and tearing and redness of the eyes.

    Zyrtec-D

    • Zyrtec-D combines 5 mg of cetirizine hydrochloride with the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (HCI), a vasoconstrictor agent. Adverse side effects associated with pseudoephedrine HCI include urination problems.

    Side effects of Pseudoephedrine HCI

    • The side effects of pseudoephedrine HCI include dizziness, excitability, hallucinations, vertigo and difficulty in passing urine.

    Zyrtec-D and the Prostate

    • Patients with an enlarged prostate should avoid using Zyrtec-D because of pseudoephedrine HCI, which has an effect on water retention. Patients who have difficulty urinating also should not take Zyrtec-D.

    Enlarged Prostate and Antihistamines

    • Patients with an enlarged prostate or who have difficulty urinating can safely take regular Zyrtec, which lacks the decongestant. They can enjoy the proven benefits of the antihistamine cetirizine hydrochloride.

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