About Allergies: If You Use Zyrtec or Benadryl, Read This!

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Allergies Allergies Symptoms / Diagnosis Treatment Coping From Daniel More, MD, your Guide to Allergies On Friday, April 30, the makers of the over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines, Zyrtec and Benadryl, recalled some of their syrup-based products due to concerns regarding accurate drug concentration as well as the presence of "tiny particles" in the medicine. While there's been no reports of side effects or serious problems, this recall was taken as a precautionary measure. There is a small possibility that a person (especially a child) would get a slightly higher dose than usual because these medicines were made with a higher concentration than what is labeled on the container. While this initially seems concerning, I don't believe this would lead to any significant problem if the dosing instructions on the container were followed appropriately. Zyrtec and Benadryl are often given in much higher dosages by physicians that what is intended for OTC use. That being said, it is very important to use OTC products as directed on the label, unless otherwise instructed by a physician. I'm not sure what the company means by the presence of "tiny particles" in the liquid medicine, but I doubt that a "crunchy syrup" would hurt anybody. Still, if you have one of the recalled products listed by the NDC number, stop using it and contact the company for a refund. OTC Allergy Medicines Ever wonder if the medications for allergies available over-the-counter are any good, or if they're safe to use? Find out which OTC medicines you should use, and which ones you should avoid. Antihistamines for Allergic Rhinitis Antihistamines are the most common medications used to treat allergic rhinitis. Find out which antihistamines work the best to treat hay fever, which have the least amount of sedation and which ones are best to use in children. Side Effects of Benadryl Learn why Benadryl may not be the best choice for the treatment of allergies, and which medicines are better choices. Allergy Basics The page covers topics which are basic to the understanding of allergic diseases in general. A brief question and answer format is used in an easy to read and understand manner. Allergies Ads Allergies Allergy Cure Allergy Treatment Loratadine Allergy Symptoms Featured Articles Frequently Asked Questions Nose and Eye Allergies Skin Allergies Asthma and Lung Allergies Common Allergy Issues in Children Food Allergies   More from About.com Disney Trip Planner Everything you need to plan the perfect Disney vacation -- from when to go and what to do, to saving money and picking a hotel. More > Join About.com's User Panel! Share your opinions and help us make About.com more relevant, informative and enjoyable to use. More> This newsletter is written by: Daniel More, MD Allergies Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Allergies newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2010 About.com   Must Reads What are Allergies? Symptoms of Allergies Diagnosis of Allergies Treatment of Allergies Preventing Allergies Advertisement