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Cetirizine Eye Solution

What is this medication?

CETIRIZINE (se TI ra zeen) treats allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy eyes. It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction. It belongs to a group of medications called antihistamines.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): ZERVIATE

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Vision problems
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Finish the full course of your medication prescribed by your care team even if your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

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NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Tell your care team right away if you have any change in your eyesight.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your care team when you can use your lenses again.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Blurry vision
  • Eye pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date. Keep the bottle closed when not in use. Keep single-use containers in the original foil pouch until the time of use. Throw away a single-use container after use.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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