Slow taper of Zyrtec can calm itching withdrawal symptoms

Q: I stopped taking Zyrtec last week and have been suffering extreme itchiness since then. At first, I thought it was due to a change in the weather. Then I did an online search that turned up Zyrtec withdrawal. How long will the itching last?

A: We first heard about cetirizine (Zyrtec) withdrawal itching more than a decade ago. Readers reported relentless itching within a few days of stopping this antihistamine.

For some people, the itching lasted up to six weeks.

We contacted the Food and Drug Administration about this “discontinuation syndrome.” Initially, there seemed to be skepticism, but eventually, the agency published research confirming this reaction (Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, July 5, 2019). According to Dutch researchers, gradual tapering of the cetirizine dose or a short course of corticosteroids might help alleviate the itching (Drug Safety Case Reports, December 2016).

Q: Some time ago, I read about using personal lubricants in the nose to relieve dryness. I’ve found a soothing water-based lubricant wonderful for moisturizing and cleaning the nose. Hospitals ought to use it for anyone on oxygen. Relief is immediate. I began using a waterbased lubricant during the winter months to relieve dry nose bleeding from forced hot air heating.

Previously, I used ointments such as Neosporin in my nose, but such ointments are oil-based, dangerous for the lungs

Several years ago, we heard from a nurse that “K-Y Jelly is what we use on my patients when they have to rely on oxygen with a nasal cannula. I also use it at home during the winter months when we have the wood stove blazing to heat our home. I have also used Ayr Nasal Gel, which is available over-the-counter in many pharmacies.”

Readers may be more familiar with K-Y Jelly as a lubricant for sexual intercourse. Other water-based lubricants might also be helpful in this completely different application.

Q: When Flomax did nothing to reduce frequent nighttime urination, my urologist said anecdotal information suggests that ibuprofen may help in some cases. Trying it, I have reduced my nightly visits from about four down to around two.

Googling, I found that ibuprofen reduces prostaglandins. Another article suggested prostaglandins activate the“sensor” responsible for signaling to the brain that the bladder needs emptying. I have

We first heard about using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as celecoxib (Celebrex) for men with nighttime urination due to prostate enlargement (Urology, October 2008). Regular use of NSAIDs, however, might harm the kidneys. You should ask the urologist to monitor your renal function. These drugs can also increase the risk for stomach ulcers and high blood pressure as well as heart attacks and strokes.

You might consider munching a handful of raisins in the evening. There’s no science, but many readers report this can be helpful. Other options include Pycnogenol (Minerva Medica, August 2018), pygeum bark (American Journal of Medicine, Dec. 1, 2000) and lycopene (Journal of Functional Foods, July 2021).

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Send questions to them via www. peoplespharmacy.com.

DREAMSTIME The FDA published research confirming itchiness as a symptom of withdrawal from stopping Zyrtec. and not very effective. Personal lubricants are awesome and fast. A: a urologist visit next week and will discuss this with him. Do you have other suggestions? A: