Can Zyrtec (cetirizine) affect seizure activity? - Epilepsy Message Board

11ddebb · 05-13-2008, 08:24 PM

I've been having simple partial seizures for a few years...the type where I have this strong deja vu feeling, and feel like I'm in a bubble separated from everything going on around me. They usually last for a minute or so.
I've been having fewer of these episodes recently, since I started a fish oil supplement (not sure if there's a connection there, but I was definitely having more episodes before I started the supplement).
Last week, I tried the allergy med Zyrtec (cetirizine). I took it for 4 days, and had more episodes during those 4 days than I'd had in the last few months combined.
Has anyone else tried this medication or know of any side effects related to seizure activity?
Thanks so much,
Deb

soccerschmee14 · 05-13-2008, 09:24 PM

ive briefly tried zyrtec and it had no negative effects on me. but i dont know, it could very well lower the sz threshhold

SentenceDoing · 05-14-2008, 08:37 AM

A lot of allergy meds are known to lower the seizure threshold. I'm not sure exactly which chemicals it is that they conrtain that causes this, though. I've taken Benadryl without a problem, but I know others here said that they have a lot of seizures after taking Benadryl.