In a large study, 11% to 14% of people taking Zyrtec reported drowsiness, compared to 6% of people taking inactive tablets.
Dear Dr. Roach: Is Zyrtec safe for a 75 year old to take?
Doctor of Medicine
Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is a “new generation” antihistamine that has fewer side effects than older antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Still, some people may feel drowsy when taking this drug. In a large study, 11% to 14% of people taking Zyrtec reported drowsiness, compared to 6% of people taking inactive tablets.
Older adults are even more likely to develop drowsiness, so it is recommended that those over 77 years of age do not exceed 5 mg (half the dose for younger adults).
The reason for the lower dose is that older people tend to have slower metabolisms, so a 5 mg dose is roughly equivalent to a 10 mg dose in a young person.
One problem that can occur if you take antihistamines daily is that you may experience severe itching when you stop taking the antihistamine. To avoid this, don’t take it every day unless you really need it, and even then, don’t take it regularly. If you are taking Zyrtec for chronic allergic symptoms in your nose, you may have better results with a nasal steroid such as fluticasone (Flonase).
Dr. Roach regrets not being able to respond to individual letters, but will incorporate them into his columns whenever possible. Readers can email questions to [email protected]
