Cetirizine
Also known as: Cetirizine Dihydrochloride
Cetirizine (HCl) is antihistaminic agent. Histamine mediates allergic and inflammatory reactions. It provides relief of allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes, sneezing, itching and hives. Cetirizine (HCl) is also used for allergic skin conditions.
Primary Characteristics
Cetirizine is also known as Cetirizine Dihydrochloride, Cetirizine (HCl), Cetirizine Dihydrate.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Diperazine.
It belongs to H1-antagonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antihistamine, Nonsedating pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 461.8 · pKa: 1.6, 2.9, 8.3 · Solubility in Water: freely soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Cetirizine.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Cetirizine has an oral bioavailability is 50% (±50%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 5% (±5%).
Distribution: Cetirizine has a volume of distribution is 33-41 litre. plasma protein binding is 93%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 6.7-10.9 hr, renal excretion is 70.9%. And 10% in feces.
Advertisement
Indications
Cetirizine is primarily indicated in conditions like Atopic dermatitis, Chronic idiopathic urticaria, Perennial rhinitis, Seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Cetirizine is also indicated for secondary conditions like Symptomatic relief of allergy.
Contraindications
Cetirizine is contraindicated in conditions like Porphyria, Hypersensitivity, Pregnancy, Breast feeding.
Dosage
Cetirizine's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 5 – 10 mg | — | Every 12h | PO | 5mg twice a daily, 10mg once daily |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 3.75 mg | 3.75 mg | Every 12h | PO | 2.5 mg twice daily and 5 mg once daily |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Cetirizine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Leucopenia . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Cetirizine are Sedation .
Cetirizine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Agitation , Drowsiness, Dry mouth, GI discomfort, GI upset, Headache, Somnolence .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.3 — Anti-allergics (Antihistamines) and drugs used in anaphylaxis
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Cetirizine in Pakistan: