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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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When Should Zyrtec Be Taken For Allergic Reaction To Avoid Drowsiness?

I am scared to take Zyrtec because I have to drive in 10 hours. It says on the label drowsiness may occur, be careful when driving a car. and I am very sensitive to medicines. I was going to take 5 mg because my doctor told me to take it because I am having a severe allergic reaction to bug bites with hives, hot and burning, all over my legs. Plus, sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes and throat. It is 11:22 pm now. Will I be able to drive by 9;30 am tomorrow morning.
Wed, 4 Mar 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Zyrtec or cetrizine is a antihistaminic drug of a non-sedative class but people have drowsiness because of its psychological or placebo effect.
If you are suffering from severe allergic reaction like hives,sneezing,runny nose etc and you will have to drive for whole night then can choose other alternative antiallergic drugs like montelukast,Allegra(fexofenadine 120 mg) to combact your allergic reactions and drive without drowsiness.
As above all are OTC drugs but it would be advisable to you that it must be taken after the doctor's consultation.
Thanks and regards,
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When Should Zyrtec Be Taken For Allergic Reaction To Avoid Drowsiness?

Hi, Zyrtec or cetrizine is a antihistaminic drug of a non-sedative class but people have drowsiness because of its psychological or placebo effect. If you are suffering from severe allergic reaction like hives,sneezing,runny nose etc and you will have to drive for whole night then can choose other alternative antiallergic drugs like montelukast,Allegra(fexofenadine 120 mg) to combact your allergic reactions and drive without drowsiness. As above all are OTC drugs but it would be advisable to you that it must be taken after the doctor s consultation. Thanks and regards,