OTC- Zyrtec: A Few Things To Be Aware Of

OTC- (Over the Counter) Zyrtec / Zyrtec-D: Buyer Beware

By this time you have probably seen the ads for Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D (antihistamine plus decongestant).

Many of my patients are excited about the ability to get a very capable allergy medication without a prescription. I have mixed feeling about this. The good news is, patients and parents may purchase Zyrtec in its various formulations without the delay sometimes associated with required doctor’s office visits. This of course may also reduce expenses that go along with having to see a doctor for a prescription.

The bad news is, small quantities of Zyrtec tablets in many cases will cost more than before (when co-pays represented the total cost to the consumer). Patients and parents will be required to familiarize themselves with the potential side effects, special dosing information, drug interactions, precautions and contra-indications (situations where the drug should not be used). This means that the package insert should carefully be read.

Be Aware That:

-Zyrtec, unlike Loratadine (Claritin, Alavert, Walatin and others) is not non-sedating. It is considered low sedating which means that more than 10% of people in clinical trials complained of sedation or fatigue. This was much less significant in children.

-People over 65 years of age may be at higher risk of side effects if they have decreased kidney function (more common in the elderly).

-Dry mouth is a potential side effect as with many antihistamines.

-Zrytec-D contains a maximum dose (per 12 hour) of pseudoephedrine. People with high blood pressure or heart conditions should consult their doctor before taking this.

-Zyrtec-D may also impact other disorders such as narrow angle glaucoma, constipation, urinary retention and insomnia. Most of these factors are related to the decongestant component (pseudoephedrine).

-If you are on other prescribed or OTC drugs, or herbs, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist about possible drug interactions. Dangerous side effects may surface if the wrong combination of drugs (including herbs) are taken together or within the same day.

-If you are pregnant or breast feeding, you should consult your doctor about the safety of Zyrtec and its formulations in this setting.

-There are specific dosing recommendations based on age as well as whether a decongestant is a component of the drug. If you have other health problems the dose may need to be adjusted (or perhaps the medication avoided).

Bottom Line:

OTC- Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D is here and will be even more affordable as competitive pricing gets underway. The consumer must remember to read the patient information and ask questions if there are unclear points. Your doctor still plays an important role in managing your health as it relates to medications hence you should inform him or her about any OTC being taken.

Review my comments about the role of antihistamines (for example Zyrtec) and decongestants (example- pseudoephedrine) posted last year (Feb 18th 2007).

Your Quiz question for today:

True or False?

Zyrtec may cause drowsiness in some patients and should cautiously be used if operating heavy machinery or driving.

The answer is in the Answer Widget to the left. Press the link.

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