View source for Zyrtec-D

== Zyrtec-D ==

'''Zyrtec-D''' (pronounced: /ˈzɪərˌtɛk diː/) is a combination of an [[antihistamine]] and a [[decongestant]] used to treat symptoms such as itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from [[hay fever]] and other [[allergies]], and [[nasal congestion]] from the common cold.

=== Etymology ===

The name "Zyrtec-D" is a brand name derived from its generic name, ''cetirizine hydrochloride and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride''. "Zyrtec" is a play on the generic name ''cetirizine'', and the "-D" signifies the addition of ''pseudoephedrine'', a decongestant.

=== Usage ===

Zyrtec-D is used to relieve allergy symptoms caused by hay fever, upper respiratory allergies, and the common cold. These symptoms include [[itching]], [[runny nose]], [[watery eyes]], and [[sneezing]]. It is also used to relieve itching from hives.

=== Side Effects ===

Common side effects of Zyrtec-D include drowsiness, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. Serious side effects are rare, but may include fast/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes, and difficulty urinating.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Antihistamine]]: A type of medicine that blocks the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
* [[Decongestant]]: A type of drug that shrinks swollen nasal tissues to relieve symptoms of nasal swelling, congestion, and mucus secretion.
* [[Hay Fever]]: An allergic disorder characterized by an exaggerated immune response to pollen grains and other substances.
* [[Allergies]]: A condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance.
* [[Nasal Congestion]]: The blockage of the nasal passages usually due to membranes lining the nose becoming swollen from inflamed blood vessels.

[[Category:Medicine]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
[[Category:Allergies]]

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