Cetirizine

• This medication is used to prevent itching of the eyes due to allergies.
• Cetirizine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the natural substance histamine that causes allergic symptoms.
• Do not use this medication to treat red or irritated eyes caused by wearing contact lenses. Contact your medical provider for further instructions if this occurs.

• Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your medical provider, usually twice daily (about 8 hours apart).
• To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
• If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Wait at least 10 minutes before replacing your contact lenses. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
• Do not open the single-use container until just before you are ready to use it. After use, throw away the remaining contents of the container right away.

• To apply, use the following guidelines:

  • Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch.
  • Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch as directed by your medical provider.
  • Look downward, gently close your eyes and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose).
  • Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes to prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye.
  • If directed to use this medication in both eyes, repeat these steps for your other eye.
• If you are using another kind of eye medication–such as other drops or ointments–wait at least 5 minutes before applying it. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
• Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated–for example, if drops turn a dark color. Using contaminated eye medication can cause infection, serious damage to the eye or loss of vision. Contact your medical provider or pharmacist for more information.
• Tell your medical provider if your condition does not get better in a few days or if it gets worse.

• Mild and temporary burning/stinging of the eyes may occur when you apply this medication. If this lasts or gets worse, tell your medical provider or pharmacist right away.
• Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects.

• A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling, especially of the face/tongue/throat
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

• This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

• Before using Cetirizine, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies.
• This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Go to your patient dashboard and request a callback for more details.
• Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history.
• After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery or do any activity that requires clear vision until you can do it safely.
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when there is a clear need. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical provider.
• It is unknown whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your medical provider before breastfeeding.

• Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.
• Keep a list of all the products you use–including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products–and share it with your medical provider and pharmacist.
• Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.

• This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and is experiencing serious symptoms–such as passing out or trouble breathing–call 911.
• If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

• Do not share this medication with others.
• Ask your medical provider about ways to reduce your symptoms even further–such as using cold compresses and lubricating eye drops, and avoiding allergens.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Store at room temperature. Keep this product in the original foil pouch to protect it from light. Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medications away from children and pets.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details.