The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved Zyrtec (cetirizine - tablet, chewable tablet and syrup) and Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine - extended-release tablet) for nonprescription use. Both Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are now available over-the-counter (OTC) at the original prescription strength. Cetirizine is a low-sedating antihistamine used to treat allergies.

Nonprescription Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D became available January 24, 2008. Since the OTC versions have now been made available by the manufacturer, the prescription versions of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D will eventually become unavailable.

As with all OTC drugs, Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are excluded from coverage under the pharmacy benefit. Members should see their benefit booklet for details about coverage exclusions. Members no longer need a prescription to purchase these medications, and are responsible for their full cost. Before Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D became available OTC, these medications had non-formulary status. Based on a member’s particular prescription drug benefit plan, some may realize potential out-of-pocket savings by purchasing the new OTC versions of Zyrtec.

For more information about this change, visit www.zyrtec.com.