The primary use of Cetirizine + Phenylephrine is to provide relief from symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and the common cold. This combination medicine belongs to the group of antihistamines and decongestants.
The medicine is also used to manage symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pressure.
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Nausea
Trouble sleeping
Cetirizine is used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies.
Phenylephrine is used as to relieve nasal discomfort due to colds, hay fever.
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine is a combination that comprises an antihistamine and a decongestant.
Cetirizine is the antihistamine component. It targets and blocks H1 receptors, structures in our body that respond to histamine, a substance that triggers allergy symptoms. When Cetirizine blocks these receptors, it prevents histamine from creating allergic reactions, thereby relieving symptoms like runny nose, itching, and sneezing.
Phenylephrine is the decongestant part of the combination. It acts on alpha-adrenergic receptors, which are found in the walls of blood vessels in the nasal passages. Activation of these receptors by Phenylephrine causes the vessels to constrict or narrow down. These decreases swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from nasal congestion.
Doctor of Medicine
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Dosage Forms Available
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine is available as an oral tablet.
It is to be taken by mouth, swallowed whole with a glass of water.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medicine is meant for adults and children above 12 years of age.
Children below 12 years should not use this medication without a doctor's consultation.
Contraindications
This medicine is contraindicated in individuals who are hypersensitive to any of its components.
Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate gland should also avoid using this combination.
Other Medications to Avoid
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine may interact with MAO inhibitors (like selegiline, linezolid), beta-blockers (such as atenolol, propranolol), alpha-blockers (like prazosin, terazosin), diuretics (like furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), and antidepressants (like fluoxetine, sertraline).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Cetirizine + Phenylephrine may cause extreme sleepiness, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and even coma. Immediate medical attention should be sought in case of an overdose.
If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, avoid taking the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.
For dry mouth, try chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless hard candies. Frequent mouth rinses and adequate hydration can also help.
Try to rest and relax if you feel drowsy or dizzy.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which could affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. If you feel these effects after taking this medication, avoid such activities.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Cetirizine + Phenylephrine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes should exercise caution when using this medicine.
Those with thyroid disorders, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate gland should also be cautious while using this combination.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regular hydration can alleviate some side effects like dry mouth associated with Cetirizine + Phenylephrine.
Avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Maintain a balanced diet to support overall health while managing symptoms of allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and the common cold.
Frequently asked questions
No, there is no documented evidence that suggests that Cetirizine + Phenylephrine causes weight gain. However, if you notice any unusual changes in your body weight while taking this medication, please consult your doctor.
As with all medicines, Cetirizine + Phenylephrine should be used with caution in the elderly. Older individuals may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, particularly drowsiness and dizziness. It is always best to consult your doctor before starting any new medication.
There is no evidence to suggest that taking Cetirizine + Phenylephrine will affect your mood or emotions. However, if you notice any changes in your mood or emotional state while taking this medicine, please consult your doctor.
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine is not known to interact with caffeine or foods containing caffeine. However, it is always best to consult your doctor if you have any concerns about interactions between your medication and food or drinks.
If you have a thyroid disorder, you should consult your doctor before taking Cetirizine + Phenylephrine. This medication should be used with caution in individuals with thyroid disorders.
The half-life of a medicine is the time it takes for the amount of the medicine in your body to reduce by half. The half-life of Cetirizine is approximately 8.3 hours, and for Phenylephrine it is about 2.5 hours. This means that it may take several days for this medication to be completely eliminated from your body.
While certain natural remedies may provide relief from symptoms of cold or allergies, they may not be as effective as Cetirizine + Phenylephrine. Always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment or medication.
Cetirizine + Phenylephrine in other salts
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