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What Is Cetirizine HCL?

Cetirizine hydrochloride (or cetirizine HCl) is the generic name for the allergy medication Zyrtec. It is an antihistimine, which blocks the body's chemical response to allergens.

  1. Effects

    • Cetirizine hydrochloride relieves symptoms of indoor and outdoor allergies, including itchy or watery eyes and an irritated, itchy throat. These symptoms are caused by the chemical histamine, which the body produces as part of the immune response; cetirizine hydrochloride blocks histamine, thereby relieving the symptoms.

    Availability

    • Zyrtec is no longer sold as a prescription, according to McNeil Consumer Healthcare. It is sold in doses for adults and children, and cetirizine hydrochloride is also available as a generic drug.

    Dosages

    • According to the FDA, cetirizine hydrochloride is sold in 5-milligram and 10-milligram tablets over the counter. It is also available by prescription as a syrup with 5 mg of cetirizine hydrochloride per 5 mL of fluid.

    Considerations

    • Cetirizine hydrochloride can cause sleepiness; consider this before engaging in hazardous or physical activities, like driving a car.

    Manufacturer

    • The brand name Zyrtec is manufactured by McNeil Consumer Healthcare. However, generic cetirizine hydrochloride is made by many other manufacturers.

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