What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Active Ingredients in Zyrtec Allergy Medicine
An allergy is the inappropriate activation of your immune system to foreign substances, such as pollen, dust and pet dander. Your immune system releases chemical signals to fight infection; however, these chemical signals can be released against harmless substances. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies can cause symptoms that involve your skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system 1. Fortunately, Zyrtec is available over the counter (OTC) to relieve symptoms of upper respiratory allergies. As with all medications, it is good to be aware of the active ingredients in Zyrtec and their possible side effects.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Cetirizine Actions
According to Zyrtec.com, the active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine. Cetirizine works by blocking the receptors of chemical signals that cause upper respiratory symptoms. During an allergic reaction, your body’s immune system releases histamines that causes sneezing, itching, stuffy or runny nose, cough or sinus headaches. Cetirizine blocks the action of histamines on your body. This ingredient is most effective when taken before exposure to an allergen. Therefore, try to take cetirizine before being exposed to substances that you are allergic to. Important side effects of this active ingredient include drowsiness, dry mouth and fatigue, according to Drugs.com. In children, Drugs.com also states that cetirizine can cause:
- abdominal pain
- coughing
- diarrhea
- headache
- nosebleed
- sleepiness
- sore throat
- wheezing
Let your doctor know if you are having any side effects from this medication. In addition, let your doctor know if cetirizine is not controlling your symptoms.
- According to Zyrtec.com, the active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine.
- Therefore, try to take cetirizine before being exposed to substances that you are allergic to.
Croscarmellose Sodium
Side Effects of Cetirizine HCL 10mg
Learn More
Inactive ingredients, or excipients, are substances that support the active ingredient or help with ease of use of the medication. For example, croscarmellose sodium is an inactive ingredient used in Zyrtec, according to Zyrtec.com. According to the journal "Pharmaceutical Development and Technology," croscarmellose sodium is a substance added to Zyrtec to help the tablet properly break down in the digestive tract. Without this ingredient, the tablet may not dissolve or may dissolve in an improper location. This can reduce the effectiveness of this medication.
- Inactive ingredients, or excipients, are substances that support the active ingredient or help with ease of use of the medication.
- According to the journal "Pharmaceutical Development and Technology," croscarmellose sodium is a substance added to Zyrtec to help the tablet properly break down in the digestive tract.
Inactive Ingredients
Consult your doctor before taking Zyrtec if you are allergic to any of these inactive ingredients.
Related Articles
References
- Mayo Clinic: Allergies
- Pharmaceutical Development and Technology: The Influence of Granulation o n Super Disintegrant Performance
- De Sutter A, Saraswat A, van Driel M. Antihistamines for the common cold. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2015. doi:10.1002/14651858.cd009345.pub2
- "Zyrtec Products." McNeil - PPC, Inc. 2009.
Writer Bio
As a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician I have extensive experience in musculoskeletal/neurological medicine that will benefit the network.