Ashley asked
Can you take Zyrtec if you have high blood pressure?
Answer
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is a second generation non-sedating antihistamine used in the treatment of allergies or urticaria (hives). Zyrtec (cetirizine) may be taken by patients with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is a once a day antihistamine that is typically well tolerated. Even though it is considered a second generation non-sedating antihistamine, it can still cause drowsiness in some patients. Caution should be used before driving or operating machinery until the effects of the medication are known. The most common side effects reported are drowsiness, headache, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, and nausea and vomiting. Patients with known liver or kidney impairments should check with their doctor or other health care provider before using.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is also available with pseudoephedrine in a medication called Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine). Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) should NOT be used in patients with high blood pressure. Pseudoephedrine is an oral decongestant that provides temporary relief of nasal congestion. Pseudoephedrine has been known to sometimes cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. For this reason, patients with high blood pressure should check with their doctor or other health care provide before taking a medication like Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine).
There are non-drug remedies that can be used for nasal congestions in patients that cannot take oral decongestants, like patients with high blood pressure. Some of these options are:
- Using a humidifier to moisturize nasal passages
- Taking a hot shower so the steam moisturizes the nasal passages
- Using a neti pot to clear the sinuses of mucus
- Utilizing a saline nasal spray to help moisturize the nasal passages
- Increase fluid intake to stay hydrated
Zyrtec (cetirizine) can be taken by patients with high blood pressure. However, Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine) contains an oral decongestant (pseudoephedrine) that cannot be taken in patients with high blood pressure. In these patients, trying some non-drug remedies may provide some relief.
