Can I take an expired Zyrtec? 

In this concise article, we will address questions about taking expired Zyrtec, including aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Zyrtec, recommended actions if one has consumed such medication past its expiry date, potential adverse effects of Zyrtec usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Zyrtec, and how this medication should be stored.

Zyrtec has an expiration date, and it is not advisable to use it beyond that date.

The exact health risks linked to the consumption of expired Zyrtec cannot be definitively determined (1,2,3). 

If you unintentionally ingest expired Zyrtec, remain observant for symptoms and promptly seek medical assistance if you experience any unusual or persistent effects.

To store Zyrtec, ensure it is kept in its original container within a well-ventilated area (4,5).

Spoiled medication might display visual alterations and emit a strong odor. If you observe any noticeable changes in the characteristics of Zyrtec, refrain from taking the medication (6,7).

Can I take an expired Zyrtec? 

Taking expired Zyrtec is not advisable. 

The expiration date specified on the medication label serves as a reliable indicator of the drug’s efficacy and safety.

Although some medications can remain effective for an extended duration, beyond their expiration date, if it is not properly stored and exposed to extreme physical conditions, it may lose its effectiveness much earlier (1).

For this reason, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly discourages the consumption of any expired medication (2).

What are the consequences of taking expired Zyrtec? 

Although Zyrtec may not be considered a dangerous medication if it expired recently, it should not be taken. 

There is a lack of research data available concerning the safety and effectiveness of expired Zyrtec, and no one, including the manufacturers, can definitively state the potential health risks associated with its usage.

Therapeutic inefficacy is the first thing that happens when your drug becomes chemically expired. Although it does not happen overnight or right on the expiry date, the process begins soon after (1,2,3). 

It is important to consider that Zyrtec is a medication with antihistamine (anti-allergic) action. Therefore, if the medication starts to lose effectiveness, allergic symptoms will persist (4) There is no way to tell how many expired tablets would be equal to a single standard dose.

Pay attention, you should not attempt to take a higher dose of expired Zyrtec. Doing so may increase the risk of overdose.

This is why stick to the expiry date and don’t take chances with your health.

What to do if you have taken expired Zyrtec? 

If you accidentally consume expired Zyrtec, it is advised to stay vigilant for any symptoms and promptly seek medical attention if you encounter any unusual complications.

As a general guideline, it is not recommended to consume expired medications due to the potential unknown side effects they may induce (1,2,3). 

It is advisable to replace the expired Zyrtec with a new one.

What are the common adverse effects of Zyrtec?

Some adverse effects associated with the use of Zyrtec include (4,5):

• Drowsiness
• Excessive tiredness
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Sore throat
• Abdominal pain
• Nose bleed
• Cough
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Zyrtec can also result in uncommon but more serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. 

It is important to ensure that you do not combine other antihistamines, such as  Benadryl, Claritin, etc., with Zyrtec, as it can lead to an excessive accumulation of antihistamine activity in your body.

Zyrtec may cause other side effects. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual or persistent issues while taking this medication.

How to identify spoiled Zyrtec?

Certain indicators may suggest that a medication has become spoiled, including (6,7):

• Packaging integrity: If the package is open or tampered with, exposing the medication to the environment, there is a high likelihood of medication degradation.
• Visible signs of deterioration: Discoloration, moisture damage, fungal or bacterial damage, or any other noticeable alteration of the medication.
• Strong and unusual odor.

How should Zyrtec be properly stored?

Keep this medication in its original container, tightly closed, and store it at room temperature, away from light, excess heat, and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is crucial to keep all medications out of sight and reach of children, as certain containers may not be child-resistant (4,5).

Conclusion

In this concise article, we have answered questions about taking expired Zyrtec, including aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Zyrtec, recommended actions if one has consumed such medication past its expiry date, potential adverse effects of Zyrtec usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Zyrtec, and how this medication should be stored.

References