Is Zyrtec good for my allergies?

Zyrtec is a second generation anti histamine pill and very effective for the treatment of allergies and related problems. It is also sold as Cetrizine. The drug acts by blocking histamine and thus reduces symptoms of allergy. Zyrtec is indicated for both adults and children 6 months or older to relieve symptoms caused by allergies, hay fever, and rhinitis. Individuals who take Zyrtec immediately obtain relief from a runny nose, itchy eyes, scratchy nose, or sneezing.

Zyrtec is available in various formulation including tablet, capsules and liquid. There are also some formulations that combine Zyrtec with a decongestant (Zyrtec D).

Zyrtec is generally well tolerated and serious side effects are very rare. The most common side effects include anxiety and lack of sleep. In some elderly individuals, Zyrtec may cause lowering of blood pressure, lightheadedness, and sedation. Urinary retention, dry mouth, and headaches may also occur in some individuals.

Even though Zyrtec is a safe drug, it is not recommend for women who are pregnant or those who are breast-feeding.

Overall, most of these side effects are short lived and the drug is well tolerated.

Zyrtec is available as a 5 mg and 10 mg tablet. Zyrtec D contains 5 mg of Cetrizine and 120 mg of pseudoephedrine.

Unlike many other anti histamines, Zyrtec tends to work a lot faster and does not cause any sedation. Zyrtec is a good first line drug for the treatment of both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Its effects may last up to 24 hours.

One should always start on the 5 mg pill. Remember, the higher the dose, the more chance of developing side effects, like sedation.

The patent on Zyrtec has expired and the pill is available over the counter.

On average, the cost of Zyrtec or Cetrizine ranges from $20-$30 for 90 tablets. For allergy sufferers this will help you get by 3 months of the allergy season.

Another option is Claritin, which is also just as effective as Zyrtec, does not cause sedation, and is also cheaper. Today, it is the rare patient who needs a prescription to buy expensive anti allergy medications. Just because the newer anti histamines are more expensive does not mean they are more effective.

For more information on allergy supplies, please visit www.medexsupply.com

Can cooking oil worsen my allergy?

Summer season is not far and all allergy sufferers who barbecue, deep fry or eat oily foods- take note. Many individuals wonder if use any particular type of cooking oil makes a difference in their allergies. First of all, all the oils are made of fat. Allergies are generally due to proteins. However, there are some oils that are also made from peanuts, grape seed, coconut, or other nuts. There has not been enough research to determine if the (protein) peanut content in these oils is high enough to worsen allergy. As a precaution, individuals who are allergic to peanuts, nuts, or coconuts should avoid such oils.

There are also more processed oils that are often sold in health food stores with terms like “Extruded” or “Cold Pressed” on the labels. These oils tend to have more protein and should also be avoided.

The safest oils for an allergy sufferer are sunflower, safflower, olive, corn, or canola. All these oils also contain a fair amount of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are important in decreasing cholesterol and heart disease. Moreover, there are many other benefits of these fatty acids. Which of these oils tastes better is a universal argument. All these oils taste the same- the taste is only better in the head.

All consumers should know that saturated oils are the ones that should be avoided. Despite the fact that olive oil and sunflower seed oils contain a lot of omega 3 fatty acids and can help reduce cholesterol, excess consumption of these oils can lead to weight gain. There are many others ways to obtain supplements of omega 3 fatty acids, and excess use of these oils is not one of them. Finally, instead of deep-frying, grill or bake your foods. The oil content will be less, the food will taste better, and you will be safe from both allergies and calories.