What is zyrtec used to treat

Various treatments and strategies can help keep allergies at bay, including allergy shots. These injections help a person get used to an allergen over…. An allergic reaction on the face can cause symptoms, such as red, raised bumps, swollen lips, and wheezing. They are often caused by beauty products…. Allergies and colds share similar symptoms, such as a runny nose and a sore throat. What are the similarities between the two conditions, and how long….

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is an allergy that causes sneezing, watery eyes, and itching, often in response to pollen. Find tips here for…. An allergy develops when the immune system becomes hypersensitive to a food or other substance.

Learn how to identify and manage allergies here. Zyrtec vs. Claritin for treating allergies. Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. Claritin Comparisons How do they work? Warnings Precautions Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. Share on Pinterest People can purchase Zyrtec and Claritin without prescription. They are available as pills, chewable tablets, and syrups.

Comparisons with other allergy medications. How do allergy medications work? Share on Pinterest Zyrtec and Claritin are safe for most people with minor allergies, but side effects can include headaches and dizziness. Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help?

Related Coverage. Allergy shots: Uses, effectiveness, and side effects. Medically reviewed by Elaine K. Luo, M. How to get rid of an allergic reaction on the face. Types of Allergy Medicine. What Helps with Allergies at Home? How to Manage Symptoms with Lifestyle Changes.

Featured Product Use only as directed. Sneeze-free Fun for Kids. Sign in to print your coupon. Or use your traditional account. Forgot your password? Use another account. Zyrtec, however, is more likely than Claritin or Allegra to have the side effect of fatigue. If you are coping with hay fever or hives it's important to have a good relationship with your allergist.

Some people try different medications while keeping an allergy journal as a way to see which medication works best for them specifically. With children, it's important to weigh the benefits of treatments including better concentration during school against the possible risks and side effects. Your pediatrician can help you recognize when your child may or may not benefit from medications. With older children, it can be very helpful to involve them and include them in this decision-making process.

During pregnancy, it's ideal if you don't take any medications, but sometimes that is not possible. The runny nose associated with pregnancy combined with allergic rhinitis can be very uncomfortable. During pregnancy, those with allergic rhinitis or hives may notice a worsening of their symptoms, an improvement, or things may stay the same. The important point is that your symptoms may change and it can be helpful to be prepared. Zyrtec has a pregnancy category "B" rating, meaning that it is generally considered to be safe for people who are pregnant.

In contrast, some allergy medications should usually be avoided during pregnancy include intranasal antihistamines and first-generation antihistamines such as Benadryl. The dosage of Zyrtec is 2. Larger doses have not been shown to be more beneficial for the treatment of hay fever, but may be more useful for the treatment of hives in some people.

Zyrtec starts to work within an hour or so after taking the medication—making it useful for the as-needed treatment of hay fever and hives. Taking it daily, however, may result in better overall control of allergy symptoms. This is in contrast to some medications, particularly nasal steroid sprays, which need to be taken for some time to be effective.

Zyrtec has a low incidence of side effects and is usually well-tolerated. Common side effects include:. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth.

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