Summary RESPIRATORY DRUGS

Antihistamines (nonsedating) – cetirizine (Zyrtec) Therapeutic Use Administration Management of: • Allergic rhinitis • Chronic idiopathic urticaria • May take with or without food. • Do not take with other over- the-counter antihistamines. • Expect dose to be lower in patients who have compromised renal or liver function. Side/Adverse Effects Interventions Patient Instructions • Drowsiness and fatigue (less than first- generation sedating antihistamines, but still a possible effect) • Monitor the patient when ambulating. • Take once-daily dose at time desired. • Avoid driving and activities that require mental alertness until the drug’s effects are known. • Anticholinergic effects - dry mouth, nose, and throat (less than first-generation sedating antihistamines, but still a possible effect) • Provide water and encourage frequent sips. • Provide hard candy to suck on. • Take frequent sips of water. • Suck on hard candy. Contraindications Precautions Interactions • Infants under 6 months • Breastfeeding women • Allergy to H1-receptor antihistamines or hydroxyzine • Impaired kidney or liver function • Theophylline (Theo-24) can reduce clearance and lead to toxicity. • Atropine may cause anticholinergic effects.