Cetirizine
.svg)
DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
NO
Teratogenicity
N/A
Pharmaceutical Class
Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist
Cetirizine
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication used to treat symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat caused by allergies like hay fever.
Cetirizine works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that your body releases during an allergic reaction. It selectively blocks the H1 receptors in the body, preventing histamine from binding and causing symptoms.
For adults and children 6 years and older, the typical dosage is one 10 mg tablet once a day. For milder symptoms, a 5 mg dose can be taken. The tablet can be taken with or without water. There are no specific food restrictions.
Common side effects of Cetirizine include drowsiness, changes in appetite, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, headaches, nausea, diarrhea, weight gain, and a decrease in libido. If you experience these or any other side effects, consult your healthcare provider.
Cetirizine may cause drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives as they can increase this effect. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver or kidney problems or are taking tranquilizers or sedatives, talk to your doctor before using Cetirizine. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience serious side effects.
Indications and Purpose
What is Cetirizine used for?
Cetirizine is a medicine that helps stop allergy symptoms. It treats runny noses, sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, and nose or throat itching caused by allergies like hay fever.
How does Cetirizine work?
Cetirizine acts as an antihistamine by selectively blocking the H1 receptors in the body. This action prevents the binding of histamine, a substance released during allergic reactions, thereby alleviating symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Additionally, cetirizine has a longer duration of action compared to first-generation antihistamines, resulting in effective relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours after administration.
Is Cetirizine effective?
Cetirizine effectively relieves allergy symptoms like runny nose and sneezing. Clinical studies show significant symptom reduction within one hour, lasting up to 24 hours after dosing.
How does one know if Cetirizine is working?
Cetirizine's effectiveness is evaluated through clinical trials comparing it to placebos, measuring symptom relief in patients with allergies. Studies demonstrate significant reductions in symptoms like sneezing and runny nose within one hour, lasting up to 24 hours. Patient-reported outcomes and safety assessments further confirm its efficacy and tolerability across diverse populations.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Cetirizine?
For adults and children aged 6 years and over, the usual daily dose of Cetirizine is 10 mg once daily. For children under 6 years, a doctor should be consulted to determine the appropriate dose. Adults over 65 years and those with liver or kidney disease should also seek medical advice for dosing.
How do I take Cetirizine?
For adults and children 6 years and older, chew or crush one 10 mg tablet once a day. Do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. For milder symptoms, you can take a 5 mg dose. You can take the tablet with or without water. There are no specific food restrictions.
For how long do I take Cetirizine?
The typical duration of use for cetirizine is once daily, as needed for allergy relief, based on individual symptoms.
How long does it take for Cetirizine to start working?
Cetirizine typically starts to work within 1 hour after ingestion, providing relief from allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.
How should I store Cetirizine?
Keep out of reach of children means to store something where children cannot touch or get to it. This is important for things that could be dangerous or harmful to children, such as medicines, cleaning products, or sharp objects.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Cetirizine?
Warnings:May cause drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives as they can make you even more drowsy.If you've had an allergic reaction to this medicine or other antihistamines, don't use it.Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you have liver or kidney problems or are taking tranquilizers or sedatives.
Can I take Cetirizine with other prescription drugs?
This product can cause drowsiness. Drinking alcohol, taking sedatives, or tranquilizers can make you feel even more tired. If you're taking tranquilizers or sedatives, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.
Can I take Cetirizine with vitamins or supplements?
Cetirizine may interact with certain vitamins and supplements, particularly those that can enhance drowsiness. Notably, alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers can increase the sedative effects of cetirizine, leading to heightened drowsiness. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid these substances while taking cetirizine.
Can Cetirizine be taken safely while pregnant?
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this product. There isn't any information about its effects on unborn babies or nursing children.
Can Cetirizine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to talk to your doctor before using any product. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this product.
Is Cetirizine safe for the elderly?
For seniors, it's important to be careful with Cetirizine. Talk to your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, as you may need a different dose. This medicine can make you sleepy, so be careful if you drive or use machines. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives or tranquilizers, as they can make you even more drowsy.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Cetirizine?
Cetirizine may cause drowsiness, which could potentially affect physical performance or exercise. If you feel drowsy after taking Cetirizine, it might be best to avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about exercising while taking Cetirizine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Cetirizine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Cetirizine can increase drowsiness, which is a side effect of the medication. It is advised to avoid alcoholic drinks to prevent enhanced drowsiness and potential impairment in activities such as driving or operating machinery.
Forms / Brands
