CETIRIZINE ALLERGY. Itchy eyes, runny nose… In the midst of an allergy peak, can you take cetirizine (Zyrtec) without risk with the coronavirus epidemic? Answer.
[Mise à jour le 15 avril 2022 à 17h16] Sneezing, red, itchy eyes… Are you in the middle of a hay fever attack? Don’t panic, you can take antihistamines (Loratadine (Clarityne®); Desloratadine (Aerius®)); including cetirizine (Zyrtec®, Virlix®), even in the presence of the coronavirus epidemic. As confirmed by French Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (SFPT) “there is no risk”. That is to say, no increased risk of contracting the virus or of reacting less well in the event of contamination. Cetirizine blocks histamine receptors, the stimulation of which causes allergy symptoms. “By blocking these receptors, cetirizine and other antihistamines do not lower defenses against viruses and bacteria. There is therefore, a priori, no risk in taking antihistamines during this period. Also, if the signs of rhinorrhea are significant, it may be helpful to take antihistamines rather than another treatment to differentiate with respiratory signs of potential infection” continues the SFPT.
Indications: when to take cetirizine?
Cetirizine is indicated for the treatment of nasal and eye symptoms of allergic rhinitis seasonal or perennial (RAP) and for the treatment of the symptoms ofchronic urticaria (chronic idiopathic urticaria). Medical advice is recommended for chronic idiopathic urticaria. It comes in the form of tablets and relieves allergic symptoms within half an hour of its administration for a usual period of 24 hours. It can be used in pregnant women, regardless of the term of pregnancy.
People with allergies should not stop their treatments despite the coronavirus epidemic
Despite the coronavirus epidemic, “more than ever, patients allergic to pollen must continue their disease-modifying treatment right now. Inhalers of course, prescribed in case of asthma, but also oral antihistamines, which limit the release of histamine in the body. It is indeed this histamine that promotes inflammatory mechanisms. explained to us recently Dr Albanne Branellec, allergist in Paris. For sprays to spray in the nose, you can also continue them if they are usually prescribed to you, but if you notice a loss of smell while your nose is not particularly stuffy, contact your doctor as this may be one of the coronavirus symptoms.