Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan

Dosage Forms Available

• Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan is available in the form of tablets.

• The route of administration for these tablets is oral, meaning they are taken by mouth.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children above 12 years of age.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to either cetirizine or dextromethorphan.

• It is also contraindicated in patients currently taking or having recently stopped taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with CNS depressants (such as alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers), and anticholinergics (such as certain antidepressants like amitriptyline and muscle relaxants like atropine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan may lead to symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, restlessness, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and seizures at very high doses. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the 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 of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For dry mouth, try sipping water regularly or using sugar-free gum or candies to help keep your mouth moist.

• If experiencing drowsiness, try taking this medicine during times when you can rest and recover without needing to be alert.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid such activities if you feel drowsy or are unable to concentrate after taking this medication.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended without a doctor's advice. It is best to consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or nursing.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with severe liver or kidney disease should use Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan with caution. Adjustments in dosage or frequency might be necessary.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure adequate hydration to help manage potential side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre to help alleviate any digestive side effects like constipation.

• Establish a regular sleep schedule to cope with potential drowsiness—try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

• If experiencing drowsiness as a side effect, avoid caffeine close to bedtime to ensure it does not interfere with your sleep pattern.

• Engage in mild to moderate physical activity daily to promote overall health; however, do so when you are not feeling drowsy or impaired.