Usage

Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of cetirizine may vary depending on factors such as age and the specific formulation of the medication. Here is some information on cetirizine dosage:

• For adults: The usual recommended dosage for adults is 10mg of cetirizine once a day. This can be in the form of tablets or capsules.

• For children: The dosage for children may vary depending on their age. For children between 6 to 11 years of age, the usual dose is 5mg of cetirizine twice a day. It is important to consult a healthcare professional or refer to a reliable source like St. Louis Children's Hospital for specific dosage recommendations based on the child's weight and age

• Renal impairment: Patients with impaired kidney function may require a lower dosage of cetirizine. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage adjustments in such cases

 

Side Effects

Cetirizine, like any medication, can cause side effects. Here are some common side effects of cetirizine:

• Feeling sleepy or tired: This is the most common side effect of cetirizine, occurring in more than 1 in 10 people. If this side effect bothers you or does not go away, it is recommended to talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Headaches

• Dry mouth

• Feeling sick (nausea)

• Feeling dizzy

• Diarrhea

• Sore throat

• Sneezing or blocked and runny nose

Precaution

When using cetirizine, it is important to take certain precautions. Here are some precautions to consider:

• Drowsiness: While cetirizine is generally considered non-drowsy, some individuals may experience drowsiness or tiredness. It is advisable to be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how your body responds to cetirizine.

• Allergic reactions: Do not use cetirizine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients. Additionally, if you are allergic to any antihistamine that contains hydroxyzine, it is recommended to avoid cetirizine.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider before taking cetirizine. While cetirizine is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is always best to seek professional advice.

• Liver or kidney disease: If you have liver or kidney disease, it is advisable to consult your doctor about taking cetirizine. Your doctor may recommend a lower dosage or alternative treatment options.

Overdose

An overdose of cetirizine can occur if you take more than the recommended dosage. It is important to follow the prescribed or recommended dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the package labeling. Here is some information on cetirizine overdose:

• Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose of cetirizine can vary but may include drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, irritability, dry mouth, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in rare cases, seizures or coma.

• Treatment: If you suspect an overdose of cetirizine, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You can call your doctor, the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222, or your local emergency number. In severe cases, such as seizures or difficulty breathing, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Treatment for an overdose may involve supportive care to manage symptoms and monitoring of vital signs.

Interaction

Cetirizine can interact with certain substances, and it is important to be aware of these interactions. Here is some information on cetirizine interactions:

• Alcohol: It is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcoholic drinks while taking cetirizine. Mixing cetirizine with alcohol can cause drowsiness or make you less alert.

• Tranquilizers, sedatives, and sleep aids: If you take any type of tranquilizer, sedative, or sleep aid, it is important to inform your doctor before using cetirizine. Mixing cetirizine with drugs that depress the central nervous system can increase sleepiness and affect mental and nervous system functions.

• Theophylline: There is a possibility of a drug interaction between cetirizine and theophylline, a drug used by some people with asthma and other lung problems. In some instances, when the two drugs were taken together, it took longer for cetirizine to leave the body. It is advisable to talk to your doctor if you take theophylline and are considering cetirizine.

• Other medications: Cetirizine may interact with other medications. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to avoid potential interactions.

Mechanism

Cetirizine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that is commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. The exact mechanism of action of cetirizine is not fully understood, but it is believed to work by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that is responsible for allergic reactions.

Histamine binds to specific receptors in the body, causing various allergic symptoms. Cetirizine selectively binds to and blocks these histamine receptors, particularly the H1 receptors, preventing histamine from exerting its effects. By blocking the H1 receptors, cetirizine helps to reduce or alleviate the symptoms of allergies.

Cetirizine is considered a non-drowsy antihistamine, but it can still cause drowsiness in some individuals. The sedative effect is believed to be due to cetirizine's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to certain receptors in the brain.

Disclaimer

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist about all medications and supplements being taken, to determine whether any interactions may occur. They can advise on the appropriate use and dosage of aspirin to avoid any potential drug interactions.