Reactine

Common Name: cetirizine

How does Reactine work?

Cetirizine belongs to the class of medications called antihistamines. It is used for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergies including sneezing, itchy and runny nose, tearing and redness of the eyes, as well as itching and hives. Cetirizine usually starts to relieve allergy symptoms within 20 minutes. In adults and children over the age of 12 years, it is also used for chronic allergies. Unlike many antihistamines, cetirizine usually causes little drowsiness under normal circumstances. It works for 24 hours and therefore needs to be taken only once daily. Cetirizine works by blocking the actions of one of the body's natural chemicals known as histamine. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms caused by allergies. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Reactine?

Cetirizine may be taken with or without food. The recommended adult dose of cetirizine ranges from 5 mg to 20 mg once daily depending on the severity of the symptoms and circumstances of the person taking the medication. A liquid form of cetirizine exists which allows for use of this medication by children two years of age and older. Children's doses are based on age and can be found on the package insert or on the side of the box containing the liquid form of the medication. Children should not use this medication for more than 14 days at a time unless directed by the doctor. This medication should not be used by children less than two years of age. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you forget a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. If it is the next day before you remember your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Reactine come in?

Reactine is available as tablets (5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg) and as syrup. The 20 mg tablets are available by prescription only. Tablets: 5 mg: Each white (dye-free), film-coated, ovoid-shaped, scored tablet contains cetirizine 5 mg. 10 mg: Each white (dye-free), film-coated, ovoid-shaped, scored tablet contains cetirizine 10 mg. 20 mg: Each white (dye-free), film-coated, ovoid-shaped, scored tablet contains cetirizine 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, povidone, and titanium dioxide. Syrup: Each 5 mL of colourless, fruit-flavoured syrup contains cetirizine 5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: propylene glycol, glycerin, water, methylparaben, propylparaben, acetic acid, sodium acetate, sugar syrup (sucrose), artificial grape flavour, and artificial banana flavour.

What should I NOT take with Reactine?

This medication should not be taken by anyone allergic to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any of the ingredients of the medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Reactine?

Occupational hazards: Studies have shown that cetirizine does not cause drowsiness under normal circumstances. A small percentage of people taking this medication have experienced a degree of drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery if you become drowsy while taking this medication. Liver function: People with reduced liver function should take this medication with caution, and should normally start at a lower dose of cetirizine as recommended by their doctor. Pregnancy: There are no adequate studies on the use of cetirizine by pregnant women. Therefore the use of this medication during pregnancy is not recommended unless your doctor recommends that the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the unborn child. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether cetirizine passes into breast milk. Cetirizine should not be taken by nursing mothers. Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the effects of cetirizine. Therefore, a lower starting dose may be recommended by the doctor.