Medical Description
Indicated to relieve nasal and non-nasal symptoms associated with seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis
1 tablet PO q12hr with or without food; not to exceed 2 tabs/day
Indication & Usage
Symptomatic relief of seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis when accompanied by nasal congestion, including: sneezing, rhinorrhea, itchy/watery eyes, and stuffy nose.
Active Ingredients
PseudoephedrineCetirizine
Dosage & Administration
1 tablet orally every 12 hours (twice daily).
Swallow whole (do not crush/chew). Preferably with water.
Do not exceed 2 tablets/day
Side Effects
Common:
Dry mouth, headache, dizziness
Insomnia, nervousness, tremor (pseudoephedrine-related)
Fatigue or mild drowsiness (cetirizine-related in some people)
Nausea
Serious (seek medical help):
Palpitations, fast/irregular heartbeat
Marked increase in blood pressure
Severe anxiety, hallucinations (rare)
Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
Safety Advice
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to cetirizine, pseudoephedrine, or related drugs
Severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease (common clinical contraindication)
Precautions
Use caution in:
Hypertension, arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease
Hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus
Glaucoma (narrow-angle), prostatic hypertrophy/urinary retention
Renal impairment (dose adjustment may be needed depending on product)
Use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping them
Storage
Store at room temperature (typically below 25–30°C), in a dry place away from heat/moisture/light.
Keep out of reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Avoid / use caution with:
MAO inhibitors (risk of hypertensive crisis)
Other sympathomimetics (decongestants, stimulants) → ↑ BP/HR
Caffeine → may worsen insomnia/palpitations
Other CNS depressants/alcohol (may increase sedation from cetirizine in some)
Some antihypertensives may have reduced effect (clinical consideration)
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Prefer non-decongestant options when possible. Pseudoephedrine is generally not preferred, especially in the first trimester; use only if clearly needed and advised by a clinician.
Lactation: Pseudoephedrine can reduce milk production and may cause irritability in infants; use caution or avoid if breastfeeding. Cetirizine is generally considered low-risk, but the combo needs extra caution.