Withdrawal symptoms tied to long-term use of allergy meds

The Food and Drug Administration earlier this month pushed for revising the drug facts label on several common allergy medications after rare reports of severe itching, according to a statement from the agency. Medications with cetirizine or levocetirizine antihistamines can cause severe itching, known as pruritus, after an individual ceases prolonged use, the FDA said. Both over-the-counter and prescription forms may lead to these symptoms. The FDA encouraged users of Zyrtec, Xyzal, and similar allergy meds to seek medical care if they experience side effects.

As the pollen count increases in the spring, more people with seasonal allergies turn to those medicines for their itchy throats and watery eyes. The antihistamines in these medications block the body’s chemical reaction to allergens, providing relief.

Many people only take allergy medicine for short periods during allergy season. Some, however, take them for more serious symptoms, leading to months or years of use. The FDA reports that the itching occurs when patients who use the medication daily, generally for months or years, stop taking it.

Should I stop using allergy medication? The FDA did not recall these common medicines, but it did request that manufacturers add the symptom to the drug warning label to better inform people about side effects.

The FDA encouraged consumers to pay attention to drug labels and limit their usage to the prescribed dosage. Those concerned about withdrawal side effects can talk to their doctor about other allergy treatment options, the FDA said.