Under no circumstance should you mix Zytrec and alcohol. It’s generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol when taking Zyrtec (cetirizine). Though Zyrtec is often non-drowsy antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, hives, and other conditions, it may cause drowsiness in some people, and alcohol can intensify this effect. Consult with a healthcare provider for guidelines specific to your situation.
There have also been cases of people experiencing blackouts after mixing Zyrtec and alcohol. In general, it is best to avoid mixing any medications with alcohol. If you must drink while taking Zyrtec, be sure to do so in moderation and give yourself plenty of time to rest and recover afterward. Northern Illinois Recovery is here to make sure you are not alone in your recovery.
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What is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, hives, and other conditions.
It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Zyrtec is an antihistamine drug used to treat cold symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or watery eyes.
It can also be prescribed for people who suffer from chronic urticaria (hives), eczema, and other skin allergies; this medication will help relieve your pain quickly by calming down the itchy red rash that often occurs along with these conditions. Zyrtec should always be taken as intended by a medical professional. You should never mix Zytrec with any other drug or substance.
What are the Side Effects of Zyrtec?
The most common side effects of Zyrtec are drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth. Other potential side effects include dizziness, headache, and stomach upset. If you experience any of these side effects, consult your doctor. Taking too much Zyrtec or combining it with other drugs, like alcohol, can also lead to overdose. If you suspect that you or someone is experiencing an overdose, dial 9-11 immediately and get medical attention.
What is Alcohol?
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impair coordination and judgment. Alcohol has a high risk for abuse as alcoholism continues to impact those in Illinois and across the states. Mixing alcohol with other drugs like Zyrtec can be a dangerous recipe for disasters.
When combined with Zyrtec, which can also cause drowsiness and fatigue, the effects of both substances can be amplified. If you or a loved one is abusing either Zytrec, alcohol, or both – don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
What are the Side Effects of Alcohol?
There are several short and long-term effects of alcohol that can be exacerbated when combined with Zyrtec or other drugs. When taking alcohol alone, the body may experience some of these effects:
- Head pain
- Drowsiness
- Impulsive behavior
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty focusing on tasks
- Changes in weight and appetite
- Loss of consciousness
- Anxiety or other mental disorders
These side effects alone can be uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous. These are only made worse with the addition of Zyrtec or other similar medications.
What Happens if You Mix Zyrtec and Alcohol?
Under no circumstance should you ever mix Zytrec with alcohol, or any other drugs for that matter. Drugs can end up working against each other to create dangerous side effects while amplifying pre-existing ones. When these two substances are combined, they can amplify these effects and cause further impairments in coordination and judgment. For this reason, it is not recommended to mix Zyrtec and alcohol.
The risks of mixing alcohol with Zyrtec are higher for those who have allergies, as well as the elderly. A common misconception about this drug combo is that it’s safe to combine them at once but the opposite remains true. Even when taken correctly, both can lead to feeling sick – especially when dehydrated due to either illness or excessive amount of alcohol consumption beforehand.
How Long Should You Wait Before Drinking After Taking Zyrtec
Zyrtec can stay in the bloodstream for around 24 hours after it’s been taken. Individual factors like metabolism and liver function can vary this timeframe. You should not drink during this time, and mixing any kind of drugs should be avoided at all costs. Mixing prescription medications like Zyrtec and alcohol can result in health complications and potentially dangerous side effects.
The Dangers of Mixing Zyrtec and Alcohol
Alcohol and Zyrtec both metabolize in our liver. Thus, excessive intake of one may decrease how well it works because they’re competing with each other to be broken down by this organ system. The interaction between the two drugs can end up causing several issues, some of which can be potentially fatal. Some of the dangers of mixing Zyrtec and alcohol include:
- Bodily harm/injury – Mixing the two together can cause problems with coordination and dizziness. This can create a much greater risk of injury or severe accidents
- Liver damage – In some rare cases, Zyrtec can result in acute liver damage. Alcohol abuse alone can cause several issues and can impair the liver’s function over time. Zyrtec only puts more strain on the liver when they are combined.
- Substance dependence – When you are dependent on a drug, your body will begin to react when it’s not in your body. This can occur with both Zyrtec and alcohol as well. This can lead to worsened consequences, like addiction, over time.
- Overdose – Mixing any kind of drugs together can result in an overdose. Zyrtec and alcohol are no different. Get help immediately if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose.
Overdosing on Zyrtec and Alcohol
An overdose can occur when a person takes too much of a certain drug in one sitting. However, overdosing can also occur when multiple substances are mixed. Combining Zyrtec and alcohol can end up leading to overdose in some cases. Overdosing on either substance can be fatal if medical attention is not received immediately.
It’s important to know some of the telling signs of a possible overdose when using both Zyrtec and alcohol. Look out for these signs and dial 9-11 immediately if you suspect an overdose taking place:
- Depressed breathing
- Increased or rapid heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmia)
- Liver failure
- Chest pains
- Vomiting or nausea
- Loss of balance
Signs you May Have a Drinking Problem
Alcohol alone can end up causing several problems if a person becomes addicted to it. Alcohol addiction can be difficult to spot. Many people who are addicted to alcohol are able to function in their everyday lives. They may hold down a job, go to school, and take care of their responsibilities. However, there are some signs that may indicate someone is struggling with alcohol addiction. Some telling signs someone may have a drinking problem can include:
- Not being able to limit or stop their drinking
- The desire to cut down on drinking but not being able to
- Spending long periods of time drinking or consuming alcohol
- Cravings/urge to drink
- Worsened performance at school or work
- Continuing to drink even if it causes problems (physically, mentally, socially, etc.)
- Giving up on personal hobbies and personal interests due to drinking habits
- Risky and dangerous behavior when under the influence
- Changes in appearance and hygiene
These are just some of the signs that you or someone you know may have a drinking problem. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help regarding drug rehab programs in illinois.
Getting Treatment for Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol alone and prescription drug medication abuse can end up leading to dependence and even addiction. While a person may not be meaning to become addicted to alcohol or a medication, it can happen to anyone. It’s important to have the right resources to overcome addiction and live a better life. Whether it is Zyrtec, alcohol, or another substance, help is available at Northern Illinois Recovery.
There are many drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in Northern Illinois. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone in this battle. Millions of Americans suffer from addiction, and there are many resources available to help you get through this difficult time.
We offer many different treatment options for you and your loved ones. Please reach out to our amazing team to learn more about our addiction treatment options and other addiction resources.
Licensed Physician and Surgeon
Dr. Beth Dunlap, a board-certified addiction medicine and family medicine physician, and is the medical director at Northern Illinois Recovery Center. She is responsible for overseeing all the integrated medical services at both campuses. Beth completed medical school, residency, and fellowship at Northwestern University, where she continues to serve on the faculty as a member of the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She has extensive experience in addiction medicine at all levels of care, and her clinical interests include integrated primary care and addiction medicine, harm reduction, and medication-assisted treatment.
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