Meds+Zyrtec = Bad Sleep

[Obscuremachine]

I periiodically take zyrtec d for allergies (thank you new orleans for funk air). Since changing meds, I've had 4 really bad nights of sleep, all of them on nights I took zyrtec d. I get really anxious, my thoughts seem to race, songs get stuck in my head (more than usual), I can't relax and I can't get comfortable so I toss and turn non-stop.

I didn't have this problem when I was on Wellbutrin + Lamictal (well, I had anxiety in general, but not like this)

Now I'm on Lexapro + Lamictal + Lorazepam (occasionally for sleep)

It's the absolute worst when I take zyrtec but don't take lorazepam

But it always happens each time I take zyrtec.

Anyone else heard of this or had this? Or, am I just crazy?

[Anna]

zyrtec is one of those non sleepy antihistamines, so it could be interacting, I think. I'd try benadryl or something instead to see if that helps matters, if you can.

Anna

[muriel]

Zrytec should make you sleepy or have no effect at all. It's supposed to be less drowsy, but for many people it's still sedating.

Zyrtec-D has a decongestant in it. Those keep you awake.

If you're taking he D formulation, it's not a surprise.

[jt07]

I recommend changing your antihistamine.

[muriel]

It's not the antihistamine that's most likely the problem, it's the decongestant.

Zyrtec-D contains 120mg of pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), which is a CNS stimulant. It has the potential to cause the symptoms the OP is experiencing without any sort of mixing with any other meds.

[notfred]

Right, It's the D in Zyrtec D that is keeping you up.

nf