From the Guidelines
I'm glad to hear the new medication is helping you, Carleen, and I recommend taking hydroxyzine and Zyrtec at least 4-6 hours apart to minimize potential side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth, as both are antihistamines 1.
- It's essential to note that the concurrent use of multiple antihistamines may increase the risk of adverse effects, and patients should be aware of these potential interactions.
- For your asthma management, I've sent a prescription for a new albuterol inhaler to Ridley's Pharmacy in Eagle Mountain, as having a non-expired rescue inhaler is crucial for managing allergy-induced symptoms, especially considering your history of asthma 1.
- The guidelines for asthma management emphasize the importance of having a rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, readily available to promptly treat acute symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
From the FDA Drug Label
THE POTENTIATING ACTION OF HYDROXYZINE MUST BE CONSIDERED WHEN THE DRUG IS USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DEPRESSANTS Avoid cetirizine or levocetirizine in patients who have experienced AGEP or other hypersensitivity reactions with hydroxyzine, due to the risk of cross-sensitivity. You can take hydroxyzine with Zyrtec, but caution is advised as Zyrtec is a cetirizine, and there is a risk of cross-sensitivity, and hydroxyzine may potentiate the effects of other central nervous system depressants 2. It is recommended to monitor for increased drowsiness and other potential interactions when taking these medications together.
From the Research
Medication Interactions
- You can take hydroxyzine with Zyrtec, as there is no known interaction between the two medications that would be harmful 3, 4.
- However, it's always best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or take other medications regularly.
Asthma Management
- Regarding your asthma, it's great that you have an albuterol inhaler, but since it's expired, it's recommended to get a new prescription 5, 6.
- You can request a new prescription for an albuterol inhaler to be sent to Ridley's Pharmacy in Eagle Mountain, and we will review your request to determine if a follow-up appointment is necessary.