Latebreakers: FDA gives nod to OTC Zyrtec-D for allergies

The FDA has approved McNeil Consumer Healthcare's Zyrtec-D (cetirizine HCl 5 mg/pseudoephedrine HCl 120 mg), an allergy drug, for OTC use in adults and children 12 years and older. This drug combines an antihistamine with a nasal decongestant. Available as a prescription drug since 2001, Zyrtec-D is now approved as an OTC for the relief of symptoms due to hay fever or other respiratory allergies such as runny nose; sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; itching of the nose or throat; and nasal congestion. Zyrtec-D is also used for reducing swelling of the nasal passages, relief of sinus congestion and pressure, and restoring freer breathing through the nose.