Question:
IS this a known side effect of Zyrtec? I've taken Claratin for years
and was just switched to Zyrtec. I have borderline high blood pressure
(140/90)
Answer:
BP started creeping higher when I started Zyrtec. BP went sky high
today-advised to stop taking Zyrtec-major bummer since it worked so well
on the allergies! Guess its back to Benadryl again till I see the
allergist again. If you are taking Zyrtec, get your BP checked.
198/126-sudden, major headache.
I didn't see high BP listed as a common side effect of Zyrtec: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/antihistaminessystemic202...
Antihistamines (Systemic) Hypertension is listed as a possible side effect, along with anxiety
and insomnia both of which can also lead to higher BP. Note that
possible side effects are numerous and general incidence of any
specific side effect is low. It's very effective for allergy relief
with me but I can't tolerate the side effect. However, many people
use it with no problem. If you've got elevated BP you should be
monitoring it regurlarly in any case. Best to be aware of the
potential for a problem but I wouldn't dismiss it out of hand. All
drugs have side effects, it's just a matter of how many and how
noticable. Sometimes what's listed as a side effect becomes a reason
to use it - just look at the history of Rogaine and asprin.
There is specific information required for FDA approved drugs which is
included with the packaging. Most major brands have their own web
site with a copy of the specific information posted. You may have to
dig a little to find it. For http://www.zyrtec.com the link is in the
upper left corner under prescribing information. In general just
type in www.[insert drug brand name].com and see if it has a site,
then look for the FDA required pamphlet. Don't know if it is advertised side effect-I have been taking the same
blood pressure medication for three years-bottom number was in 80's week
before I started Zyrtec. Couple weeks later it was up by ten, then wham
it was sky high with sudden severe headache. Zyrtec was the only change
to my routine. BP medication has a diuretic component to it and I bet it
is not compatible with a histamine blocker.
