Sometimes you can predict when allergies are about to strike. This happens most often in the case of seasonal allergies like hay fever. Hay fever got its name from the hay pitching season, the time of year when farmers would develop an allergic reaction while working in the fields. Now it has become the common name for allergic rhinitis, or nasal inflammation, which often occurs in the spring or fall. In countries where the seasons are clearly defined, one should be able to anticipate when they will experience allergy attacks - these are the times when you should have a box of Razene tablets handy.

Razene tablets are composed of 10 mg of cetirizine hydrochloride, or cetirizine HCI. This drug falls under the category of antihistamines, which means it suppresses allergic reactions by inhibiting the production of histamines within the body.

When the human body encounters allergenic substances such as dust, dirt, and different types of pollen (grass pollen is perhaps the most notorious kind) it produces a natural chemical called histamines. These cause the inside of the nasal passages to become swollen, resulting in symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes and uncontrollable sneezing. These symptoms would make up an allergic rhinitis episode.

Upon the introduction of antihistamines in the body, however, inflammation is controlled,

Razene is the generic brand of cetirizine HCI. This drug is also marketed under different brand names all over the world, such as Zyrtec, Virlix, and Cetirizina MERCK. Hay fever is not the only condition treated by Razene; it is also useful in alleviating the discomfort that comes with hives, also known as urticaria. Other conditions that may be treatable with Razene are persistent itching (pruritus), conjunctivitis, and insect bites.

For best results, Razene tablets should be taken once a day. Each 10 mg tablet offers 24-hour relief from many kinds of allergic reactions. A single pill can be halved, and taken in 12 hour intervals. This is best done at the suggestion of a doctor, in the case of children aged 6-12 years old. Children aged 2-6 years should take half a tablet (5 mg) once daily, or 1/4 of a tablet (2.5 mg) twice daily. Children under the age of 2 years should not be given this medicine without the advice of a pharmacist or doctor.

One should not take a double dose at any time. Moreover, one should not take more than two tablets (20 mg) a day, unless it is at the instruction of a doctor or registered pharmacist.

Razene does not normally cause drowsiness, but if you suddenly find yourself sleepy upon taking it, you may be experiencing a rare side effect. If this is the case, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery soon after taking Razene. Other possible side effects are fatigue, headaches and dryness of the mouth.

Razene may be taken with or without food in one's stomach, but if taken without food it can be expected to take effect a little more quickly. Ordinarily, this medicine works within 10-20 minutes after ingestion.

While this over-the-counter (OTC) medicine is generally safe for use by adults, certain conditions may prevent you from taking it as instructed by the label. If you have liver or kidney problems, for example, you may wish to refrain from using this product, or else consult your doctor if you may take this product at a reduced dose. Some people with renal disorders need only take 5 mg a day. People who suffer from epilepsy are also advised to take this medicine if they have not secured a go signal from their pharmacist or doctor.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the input of a qualified medical worker is invaluable. An expectant or nursing mother must be cautious about the over-the-counter medicines she ingests, as some of them could be passed on to the infant, endangering his or her healthy development.

If you are taking medications, these may also conflict with the effects of the Razene. Be especially careful when taking this medicine with antidepressants, muscle relaxants, or high blood pressure or heart medication. An example of the latter is MOA inhibitors, which are taken to prevent blood clotting. Incidentally, Razene does not contain glucose or sugar (sucrose), but does contain lactose.