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Other Medicines
Anticholinergics (medicine for abdominal or stomach spasms or cramps)¡XSide effects, such as dryness of mouth, of antihistamines or anticholinergics may be more likely to occur
Erythromycin (e.g.
E-Mycin) or
Ketoconazole (e.g., Nizoral)¡XUse of these medicines with fexofenadine may cause an increased amount of fexofenadine in the blood.
Central nervous system (CNS) depressants (medi
ines that cause drowsiness)¡XEffects, such as drowsiness, of CNS depressants or antihistamines may be worsened; also, taking maprotiline or tricyclic antidepressants may cause some side effects of eit
er of these medicines, such as dryness of mouth, to become more severe
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Symptoms of overdose
- restlessness
- irritability
- drowsiness
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Precautions while Using this Medicine
Before you have any skin tests for allergies, tell the doctor in charge that you are taking this medicine. The results of the test may be affected by this medicine.
When taking antihistamines
on a regular basis, make sure your doctor knows if you are taking large amounts of aspirin at the same time (as for arthritis or rheumatism). Effects of too much aspirin, such as ringing in the ears,
may be covered up by the antihistamine.
- Antihistamines will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsines
s).
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Precautions Before Using This Medicine
Allergies¡XTell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to antihistamines. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods,
preservatives, or dyes.
Diet¡XMake certain your health care professional knows if you are on a low-sodium, low-sugar, or any other special diet. Most medicines contain more than their active
ngredient, and many liquid medicines contain alcohol.
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What Is It
Cetirizine, an antihistamine, is used to relieve hay fever and seasonal allergy symptoms, including runny nose; sneezing; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. It also may be used to treat itching and hives t
hat result from certain skin conditions.
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Side Effects of This Medicine
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they seek medical attention immediately.
Check wi
th your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Incidence rare
- Chest tightness ; feeling of warmth, redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper ches
t; large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, sex organs; shortness of breath, difficult or labored breathing
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