alie asked
Can you take Zyrtec and then take Lipitor?
At a glance
- There is no known drug interaction between Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Zyrtec (cetirizine).
Answer
Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Lipitor (atorvastatin) can safely be taken together. There is no known drug interaction between the two drugs.
Below is some general information about Zyrtec and Lipitor.
Zyrtec (Cetirizine) Info
Zyrtec is a 'second-generation' antihistamine used for the treatment of seasonal allergies and hives. When compared to first-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl, second-generation antihistamines have a longer duration of action (~24 hours) and cause significantly less sedation. Other second-generation antihistamines include:
- Allegra (fexofenadine)
- Claritin (loratadine)
While both Allegra and Claritin are labeled and marketed as 'non-drowsy', Zyrtec is not and has a higher incidence of drowsiness. Nevertheless, the incidence is still to a much lower degree than first-generation antihistamines.
Zyrtec begins to work quickly after taking a dose, with maximum blood concentrations in adults reached in about one hour. It may be taken with or without food but taking with food may slow the rate of absorption.
Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Info
Lipitor is classified as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, used for the treatment of high cholesterol and prevention of cardiovascular disease, including:
- Coronary heart disease (CHD)
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Stroke
- Angina
Lipitor is most often taken once daily, with or without food. Administration with grapefruit juice, however, should be avoided as it can potentially increase concentrations of the drug in the body, increasing the risk of side effects, like muscle pain/weakness.
