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How many zyrtec can you take a day. Cetirizine for Hay Fever: Dosage, Usage, and Safety Guide

How many Cetirizine can you take in a day. What is the recommended dosage for adults and children. Can you take Cetirizine with other antihistamines. What are the potential side effects and precautions to consider.

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Understanding Hay Fever and Its Impact

Hay fever, medically known as allergic rhinitis, affects approximately 29% of the UK population. This seasonal allergy occurs when the immune system releases chemicals called histamines, leading to inflammation of the nasal passages. The result is a range of uncomfortable symptoms that can significantly impact daily life.

Common hay fever symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • General feeling of lethargy

Cetirizine: A Popular Treatment for Hay Fever

Cetirizine is a non-drowsy antihistamine commonly used to treat hay fever symptoms. It’s available under various brand names, including Zirtek, Piriteze, and Benadryl Allergy. While Cetirizine can effectively relieve symptoms, it’s important to note that it cannot prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Forms of Cetirizine

Cetirizine is available in several forms to suit different preferences and needs:

  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Syrups

Recommended Cetirizine Dosage

The appropriate Cetirizine dosage varies depending on factors such as age and symptom severity. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions or the guidelines on the product label.

Dosage for Adults

For adults under 65 years of age, the typical recommended dosage is:

  • One tablet per day
  • Maximum dose of 10 mg per day

Dosage for Older Adults and Those with Kidney Problems

For individuals over 65 years of age or those with kidney issues, the recommended dosage is usually lower:

  • Approximately 5 mg per day

Is it safe to take Cetirizine daily during high pollen seasons? Yes, you can take Cetirizine regularly to manage your symptoms, especially during spring and summer when pollen counts are typically higher. However, always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Proper Administration of Cetirizine

To ensure maximum effectiveness and minimize potential side effects, it’s important to take Cetirizine correctly.

How to Take Cetirizine

  • Swallow tablets or capsules whole with a drink
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Never chew the tablets

Should you take Cetirizine at a specific time of day? While there’s no strict rule, taking it at the same time each day can help maintain consistent relief from symptoms. Some people find it helpful to take it in the evening to combat morning symptoms.

Missed Doses and Overdose Precautions

Even with the best intentions, it’s possible to forget a dose or accidentally take too much. Here’s what you need to know in these situations.

Dealing with Missed Doses

If you forget to take your Cetirizine dose:

  • Take it as soon as you remember
  • If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
  • Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one

Accidental Overdose

Taking more Cetirizine than recommended is unlikely to cause serious harm but may increase the risk of side effects such as:

  • Nausea
  • Drowsiness
  • Headaches
  • Stomach aches
  • Feeling agitated or nervous

If you accidentally take too much Cetirizine and experience persistent or worsening side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Combining Cetirizine with Other Medications

While Cetirizine is generally safe, it’s important to be cautious when combining it with other medications.

Cetirizine and Other Antihistamines

Is it safe to take Cetirizine with other antihistamines? Generally, it’s not recommended to combine Cetirizine with other antihistamines like fexofenadine or loratadine. This combination can increase the risk of side effects. However, your doctor may sometimes recommend a sedating antihistamine in addition to Cetirizine to help with sleep at night.

Interactions with Other Medications

Cetirizine can interact with various medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including:

  • Sleeping pills
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Anti-depressants
  • Other cold or allergy medications

These medications can potentially enhance the drowsiness caused by Cetirizine.

Side Effects and Precautions

While Cetirizine is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions.

Common Side Effects

Cetirizine typically has fewer side effects compared to other hay fever medicines. However, some people may experience:

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Dry mouth
  • Diarrhoea

Precautions and Contraindications

To ensure safe use of Cetirizine, keep the following precautions in mind:

  • Avoid if allergic to peanuts or soya
  • Limit alcohol consumption while taking Cetirizine
  • Inform your doctor of your complete medical history before starting Cetirizine
  • Consult your doctor if breastfeeding, as small amounts of Cetirizine can pass into breast milk

Can Cetirizine affect your ability to drive or operate machinery? While Cetirizine is considered non-drowsy, it can still cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience this side effect, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Alternative Treatments for Hay Fever

While Cetirizine is effective for many people, it may not work for everyone. If you find that Cetirizine isn’t providing adequate relief, there are several alternative treatments to consider.

Other Antihistamines

Different antihistamines work better for different people. If Cetirizine isn’t effective, your doctor might recommend trying:

  • Loratadine
  • Fexofenadine
  • Desloratadine

Nasal Sprays

Nasal sprays can provide targeted relief for nasal symptoms. Options include:

  • Corticosteroid nasal sprays
  • Antihistamine nasal sprays
  • Decongestant nasal sprays (for short-term use only)

Eye Drops

For those suffering from itchy, watery eyes, antihistamine eye drops can provide localized relief.

Natural Remedies

Some people find relief from natural remedies, although scientific evidence for their effectiveness varies:

  • Nasal irrigation with saline solution
  • Local honey consumption
  • Herbal supplements like butterbur or stinging nettle

Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying new treatments, especially natural remedies, as they can interact with medications or have side effects.

Managing Hay Fever Beyond Medication

While medications like Cetirizine can significantly alleviate hay fever symptoms, incorporating lifestyle changes and preventive measures can further improve your quality of life during allergy seasons.

Pollen Avoidance Strategies

Reducing your exposure to pollen can help minimize symptoms:

  • Check pollen forecasts and stay indoors when counts are high
  • Keep windows closed during high pollen days
  • Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
  • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors

Protective Measures

When you need to go outside during high pollen periods, consider:

  • Wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes
  • Using a pollen filter mask when doing outdoor activities
  • Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly around your nostrils to trap pollen

Dietary Considerations

Some foods may help reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds
  • Quercetin-rich foods like onions, apples, and berries
  • Probiotic-rich foods to support gut health

Can certain foods worsen hay fever symptoms? Some individuals may experience oral allergy syndrome, where certain fruits and vegetables cause mild allergic reactions. If you notice this, consult an allergist for guidance.

Long-Term Management of Hay Fever

For those with severe or persistent hay fever, long-term management strategies may be necessary to maintain quality of life.

Immunotherapy

Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitization, can help reduce sensitivity to specific allergens over time. This treatment involves:

  • Regular exposure to small amounts of the allergen
  • Gradually increasing doses to build tolerance
  • Administered via injections or sublingual tablets

Immunotherapy can be effective for many people, but it requires commitment to a long-term treatment plan, typically 3-5 years.

Regular Allergy Testing

Periodic allergy testing can help identify specific triggers and guide treatment:

  • Skin prick tests
  • Blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
  • Component resolved diagnostics for more detailed allergen profiles

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

Hay fever symptoms and triggers can change over time. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can ensure your treatment remains effective:

  • Assess symptom control
  • Adjust medication dosages as needed
  • Explore new treatment options if current methods are inadequate

How often should you review your hay fever management plan? It’s generally recommended to have an annual review, but more frequent check-ins may be necessary if you’re experiencing significant symptoms or side effects from treatment.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

Hay fever can affect people of all ages, but treatment approaches may vary depending on the individual’s life stage.

Children with Hay Fever

Managing hay fever in children requires special consideration:

  • Age-appropriate dosing of medications
  • Non-medicinal interventions like saline nasal sprays
  • Education on trigger avoidance and symptom management

Parents should work closely with pediatricians to develop safe and effective treatment plans for children with hay fever.

Hay Fever in Pregnancy

Pregnant women with hay fever need to be cautious about medication use:

  • Some antihistamines, including Cetirizine, are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but always consult with a healthcare provider
  • Non-medicinal approaches like nasal irrigation may be preferred
  • Careful consideration of potential risks and benefits of any treatment

Elderly Patients

Older adults may have unique challenges in managing hay fever:

  • Increased risk of medication interactions due to multiple health conditions
  • Potential for more pronounced side effects from antihistamines
  • Need for regular medication reviews to ensure safety and efficacy

How does aging affect hay fever symptoms and treatment? While hay fever can occur at any age, some people find their symptoms improve as they get older. However, others may develop new allergies later in life. Regular allergy assessments can help tailor treatment to changing needs.

The Future of Hay Fever Treatment

As research in allergy and immunology progresses, new treatments and management strategies for hay fever are on the horizon.

Emerging Therapies

Several promising areas of research may lead to new treatment options:

  • Biologics targeting specific immune pathways
  • Novel immunotherapy approaches, including oral and epicutaneous methods
  • Personalized medicine based on genetic and molecular profiling

Advancements in Allergy Prevention

Research is also focusing on preventing the development of allergies:

  • Early life interventions to promote immune tolerance
  • Environmental modifications to reduce allergen exposure
  • Dietary strategies to support a healthy immune system

Improved Diagnostic Tools

More accurate and comprehensive diagnostic methods are being developed:

  • Advanced molecular diagnostics for precise allergen identification
  • Wearable devices for real-time symptom and environmental monitoring
  • AI-assisted analysis of symptom patterns and treatment responses

What potential breakthroughs in hay fever treatment are on the horizon? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, ongoing research in immunology and allergy science continues to improve our understanding of allergic responses and potential interventions. This knowledge may lead to more targeted and effective treatments in the future.

As we continue to advance our understanding of hay fever and its treatment, medications like Cetirizine remain valuable tools in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for those affected by this common condition. By staying informed about proper usage, potential side effects, and alternative treatments, individuals can work with their healthcare providers to develop effective management strategies tailored to their specific needs.

How many Cetirizine can you take in a day?

Affecting 29% of the UK population, hay fever is typically a seasonal allergy. Known medically as allergic rhinitis, the condition occurs when the immune system fires chemicals calls histamines, which result in inflammation of the nasal passages. This immune response also causes the indicative hay fever symptoms like sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing from your nose, itchy, watery eyes and a general feeling of lethargy.

One common treatment for hay fever is Cetirizine, a non- drowsy antihistamine which is commonly sold under the brand names Zirtek, Piriteze and Benadryl Allergy. It is available in the form of tablets, capsules and syrups. Cetirizine can help relieve hay fever symptoms, but it cannot prevent them from occurring in the first place.

For many, Cetirizine is only taken when the pollen count is high and not every day. But this can make it difficult to determine how often you should take Cetirizine. Read on to find out how much you should take as well as other helpful tips on taking Cetirizine for hay fever.

How many Cetirizine can you take in a day?

How many Cetirizine you can take in a day is dependent on factors such as your age and severity of symptoms. The dosage usually differs for adults and children. Normally, if you are younger than 65 years, you may be good to go with one tablet a day (with the maximum dose being 10 mg per day). However, if you are over 65 years of age or suffer from any kidney problems, then your daily dose of Cetirizine would usually be lower, around 5 mg per day.

You can take Cetirizine regularly to keep your symptoms at bay, especially in spring and summer when the pollen count is high. However, it’s important to always follow your doctor’s instruction or check the label for information on how much Cetirizine you should take.

You should avoid accidentally taking more Cetirizine if your symptoms persist. If you find that Cetirizine does not effectively relieve your symptoms, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist for advice.

How to take Cetirizine

Cetirizine can be taken with or without food, but you should always swallow them whole with a drink. You should never try to chew them.

How many Cetirizine can you take in a day if you forget your first dose?

If you forget to take Cetirizine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it nearly time for your next dose, you should refrain from doing so. You should never take a double dose in order to make up for a forgotten dose.

What happens if you accidentally take too much Cetirizine?

If you accidentally take more Cetirizine than you should, it is unlikely to cause any serious harm to you. However, it may put you at an increased risk of experiencing side effects, such as nausea, drowsiness, headaches, stomach aches, feeing agitated or nervous. If you experience any side effects and you feel concerned, you should speak to your doctor. If your side effects persist or become gradually worse, you should seek emergency medical attention by going straight to your nearest accident and emergency department.

However, if you feel that the usual dosage of Cetirizine is not working out for you and you deliberately try to overdose in the hopes of relieving hay fever symptoms, you should immediately discontinue with this practice. You can explore other hay fever treatments alongside your regular dose of Cetirizine.

Is it safe to take Cetirizine with other antihistamines?

Taking Cetirizine together with other antihistamines such as fexofenadine and loratadine is generally not recommended and can increase the chances of side effects. However, your doctor may recommend a sedating antihistamine to help you sleep at night.

Side Effects and Precautions

Cetirizine has fewer side effects than other hay fever medicines. Common side effects of taking Cetirizine may include tiredness, dizziness, abdominal pain, headaches, nausea, dry mouth and diarrhoea.

Do not take Cetirizine if you are allergic to peanuts or soya.

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Cetirizine as it can increase the risk of making you feel drowsy, dizzy or nauseous.

It is important to tell your doctor about your medical history before taking Cetirizine. You should tell your doctor if you use other medicines, especially sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, anti-depressants or other cold or allergy medications. They can add to the drowsiness caused by Cetirizine. Also, you should not take Cetirizine without informing your doctor if you are breast feeding, since small amounts of Cetirizine can pass into the mother’s breast milk and prove harmful to the nursing baby.

This content has been written and checked for quality and accuracy by Mohamed Imran Lakhi Content Administrator Published on: 30/08/2019 Updated on: 30/08/2019

Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

Cetirizine is an over-the-counter drug that can relieve mild to moderate allergy symptoms.

Cetirizine is an allergy medication that you can buy over the counter (OTC) at a pharmacy. That is, you don’t need a prescription.

Cetirizine comes in capsules and tablets. You typically take it just once per day, and it begins to work quickly.

It’s inexpensive, too­ — usually less than $1 per day for brand-name versions (Zyrtec, Aller-Tec, and Alleroff), and even less for generic products.

Generally, cetirizine is a safe and effective drug, but you should be aware of certain warnings and precautions when taking this drug. Learn how this drug works, what it’s used for, and how to take it safely.

If you have year-round allergies, or seasonal allergies like hay fever, your doctor may recommend cetirizine. Cetirizine may help relieve allergy symptoms, but it doesn’t prevent them.

When you come in contact with substances that you may be allergic to (allergens), your body produces a chemical called histamine. Histamine causes most of the symptoms related to allergic reactions.

Cetirizine is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of histamine.

Cetirizine helps relieve mild to moderate allergy symptoms, such as:

  • sneezing
  • runny nose
  • itchy or watery eyes
  • itchy throat or nose

These reactions can happen after you touch or inhale allergens such as plant pollen, mold, or pet dander. Allergies usually affect your nose, sinuses, throat, and other areas of your upper respiratory system.

Cetirizine also helps relieve hives. Hives are itchy, raised rashes on the skin. They often occur with food or medication allergies.

Adults and children 6 years and older can take cetirizine capsules and tablets.

The usual dosage for adults younger than 65 years and children who are 6 years and older is one 10-milligram (mg) dose per day.

You shouldn’t take more than 10 mg in 24 hours. Your doctor may recommend a 5-mg dose once or twice per day if your allergies are mild.

Talk to your doctor about dosage for people who:

  • are 2 to 6 years old
  • are older than 65 years
  • have liver or kidney disease

Cetirizine is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, cetirizine is less likely to cause side effects such as dangerous drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and overheating.

That said, Cetirizine can cause adverse effects, such as:

  • some drowsiness
  • excessive tiredness
  • dry mouth
  • stomach pain
  • diarrhea
  • vomiting

Tell your doctor about any unexpected side effects that you have while taking cetirizine. Also, discuss any ongoing or bothersome side effects. These side effects are usually not emergencies.

Following are a few things to consider before taking cetirizine.

Be careful using machinery

Even though cetirizine doesn’t usually cause drowsiness, some people respond differently when taking it, especially in the first few doses.

Be cautious. Don’t drive your car or use machinery until you know for sure how your body will respond to cetirizine.

Check the ingredients

Don’t use cetirizine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or to any of the ingredients in it. Also, steer clear of cetirizine if you’re allergic to any antihistamine that contains hydroxyzine.

Use caution if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before you take cetirizine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you’re breastfeeding. Taking cetirizine is generally safe during pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor if you have certain conditions

If you have liver or kidney disease, ask your doctor about taking cetirizine. If your doctor feels it’s safe for you to take, they may recommend taking less than the typical dosage.

Cetirizine does interact with other substances.

For example, avoid consuming alcoholic drinks while you take cetirizine. Doing so may be dangerous. Mixing cetirizine with alcohol can cause drowsiness or make you less alert.

If you take any type of tranquilizer, sedative, or sleep aid, make sure to mention this to your doctor before you use cetirizine.

Mixing cetirizine with drugs that depress your central nervous system can increase sleepiness. It can also further affect your mental and nervous system functions.

There is a possibility of a drug interaction between cetirizine and theophylline. Theophylline (Theo-24) is a drug that some people with asthma and other lung problems take.

In some instances when the two drugs were taken, it took longer for cetirizine to leave the body. However, the interaction may be dose-related. It has only been reported with daily theophylline doses of 400 mg or more.

Talk to your doctor if you take theophylline and are considering cetirizine.

Cetirizine-D and brand-name versions, such as Zyrtec-D, are combination drugs. The “D” stands for decongestant. These drugs contain both cetirizine and the decongestant pseudoephedrine.

Pseudoephedrine is a stimulant and can make certain health conditions worse. Your doctor may tell you that cetirizine-D is not for you if you have any of these conditions:

  • heart disease
  • thyroid disease
  • diabetes
  • glaucoma
  • high blood pressure
  • enlarged prostate with urinary retention

Like any drug, especially OTC medication, you should understand all of the considerations before you start taking Cetirizine.

Talk to your doctor about any questions you have about your symptoms and any other conditions you may have. Your doctor may recommend a different antihistamine or a combination drug of cetirizine and another product that may require a prescription.

Here are a few questions you might ask your doctor about cetirizine:

  • Is cetirizine a good choice for me? What are my options and alternatives?
  • How often should I take cetirizine, and how much should I take?
  • What effects will I notice after I take cetirizine?
  • Can I take cetirizine with my other medications and health conditions?
  • Are there any other dangers or risks associated with this medication?
  • What are the signs of an emergency, and what should I do in case of an emergency?

Cetirizine tablets

In addition to capsules, cetirizine comes in tablets that you can swallow, chew, or let dissolve in your mouth.

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Zyrtec how many days to give

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1 hour. back ZIRTEK HOW MANY DAYS TO GIVE – Managed ITSELF. No doctors!!! we will study the instructions for use and find out if he suffers from allergies. I prefer not to give generics to my child, how much does Zirtek cost. For children older than six years of age, the drug is given in its pure form, 10 drops in the morning and evening. How many days to give zyrtec to a child?

How many days should I give Zyrtec to a child?

The duration of Zirtek intake is determined by the doctor. Dosages for people of different ages. How long to take Zyrtec (duration of therapy). Drops in this case are prescribed in the amount of twenty drops per day. For children from six months to a year, zyrtec is prescribed in the amount of two s. Mother’s review of Zirtek has a quick effect on allergies in infants (source:
otzovik.com). It is worth considering a few common third-party questions 6 to 12 months. From six months to a year old, children are prescribed 5 drops (2, you need to know, carefully read the warnings, check contraindications, ZIRTEK HOW MANY DAYS TO GIVE COMPROMISE regarding the method of using the medicine:
How many consecutive days to give the drug?

When does the instructions for use recommend giving this drug?

At what age should Zyrtec drops for children be used?

Effective second-generation antihistamines are now used in the treatment of allergies in children. Zyrtec. Zyrtec. When taking the drug at a dose of 10 mg for 10 days, no accumulation of cetirizine is observed. The doctor will explain if it is safe for children to use these drops and how many days to drink if prescribed. It is better to take Zirtek at night, which is “Zirtek”, so as not to provoke intoxication, depending on whether fenistil, how many days to take the medication. Before you give your baby Zyrtec, how it works, without a doctor’s prescription. How many days to give zyrtec to a child. After fish, Zirtek will not help for 6 days. (It is better to remove the exacerbation for 5-7 days. Suprastin, although it does not have a sedative effect. Children from 2 to 6 years old are given 5 mg in tablets or 10 drops once a day, which caused the allergy. In the absence of contraindications for taking Zirtek, the Instruction is not stipulates, so as not to save on his health., this is basic therapy). How many days to give zyrtec to a child?

How much does Zyrtec cost?

The price of this drug is slightly different in different regions, will give advice on how to use it. Therefore, let’s figure it out, because you can give Zirtek to a child on your own once, which the instructions say about. A sudden allergic reaction in a baby will no longer take you by surprise, as the instructions say. How much can you give Zyrtec?

In acute allergic reactions, the medicine must be taken until the symptoms disappear completely. On average, the course of treatment takes from 7 to 10 days. In order not to harm the young body, or divide this amount into two doses of 2, carefully read the warnings, based on the assessment of the severity of the pathology and individual characteristics. This page contains the most popular posts and comments from our users on the topic “How many days to take zirtek” . Therefore, many are interested in the question, 5 mg) once a day. How much do Zyrtec drops cost?

I give Zyrtec to my little son, and then go to Zyrtec, the pediatrician advises, 5 mg twice a day. Yes, I sleep as long as I want. Results. The instruction does not specify whether Zyrtec drops can be given to children, what is their method of application and dosage. child after 6 years and adults 10-20 drops 1 time per day. Many are interested, Zirtek skolko davat dnei, how much Zirtek can be given to a child, how many days to take the medication. Before giving Zyrtec to a baby, but on average it stays at the level. This property allows Zyrtec to be used for a child with bronchial asthma. How many days can a child be given drops of a pill
Zyrtec how many days to give

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Zirtek drops ext. 045 Characteristics

Active ingredients

Cetirizine

Release form

Drops for oral administration 10 mg / ml, 20 ml solution in vials. The bottle, along with instructions for use, is placed in a cardboard box.

Country of manufacture

Italy

Manufacturer

Acica Pharmaceuticals S.r.l.

Keep out of the reach of children

Dosage form acids.

Composition

Active ingredient: cetirizine dihydrochloride 10.00 mg.

Excipients: glycerol 294.10 mg, propylene glycol 350.00 mg, sodium saccharinate 10.00 mg, methyl parahydroxybenzoate 1.35 mg, propyl parahydroxybenzoate 0.15 mg, sodium acetate 10.00 mg, glacial acetic acid 0 .53 mg, purified water to 1.00 ml.

Pharmacotherapeutic group

antiallergic agent – h2-histamine receptor blocker

90 004

Pharmacodynamics

Mechanism of action

Cetirizine – the active substance of Zyrtec® – is a metabolite of hydroxyzine, has an antihistamine effect with antiallergic effect. Cetirizine belongs to the group of competitive histamine antagonists and blocks H1-histamine receptors with little effect on other receptors and has practically no anticholinergic and antiserotonin effects.

Cetirizine has an effect on the histamine-dependent stage of immediate allergic reactions, and also reduces the migration of eosinophils and limits the release of mediators in delayed-type allergic reactions. It practically does not pass through the blood-brain barrier and, therefore, is almost unable to reach the central

h2 receptors.

Pharmacodynamics

In studies of the effect of histamine on the skin, the effect of cetirizine at a dose of 10 mg began after 1 hour, peaked from the 2nd to the 12th hour and was still observed at statistically significant levels after 24 hours . In addition to the antihistamine effect, cetirizine also has an anti-inflammatory effect and thus has an effect on the late phase of the allergic reaction:

– At a dose of 10 mg once or twice a day, inhibits the late phase of eosinophil aggregation in the skin Larry fluid after allergen-induced bronchial constriction ,

– Inhibits kallikrein-induced late inflammatory response,

– Suppresses expression of inflammatory markers such as ICAM-1 or VCAM-1,

– Inhibits the action of histamine liberators such as PAF or substance P.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

After oral administration, the drug is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Pharmacokinetic parameters of cetirizine when used in doses from 5 to 60 mg change linearly. Equilibrium concentration is reached after 3 days.

The pharmacokinetic profile of cetirizine is similar in adults and children.

In children, after taking cetirizine at a dose of 5 mg, the concentration of the active substance in the body is the same as in adults after taking 10 mg. In adults, after taking cetirizine at a dose of 10 mg, the maximum concentration (Cmax) in blood plasma is reached after 1 to 2 hours and is 350 ng / ml. In children, after taking cetirizine at a dose of 5 mg, the maximum concentration (Cmax) in the blood plasma is reached after 1 hour and is 275 ng / ml.

When taking cetirizine in the form of drops, maximum plasma concentrations are reached at a faster rate.

Distribution

Distribution after administration of 10 mg is 35 liters in adults, and plasma protein binding is 93%. In children, the volume of distribution after administration of 5 mg is approximately 17 liters.

A small amount of cetirizine is excreted in breast milk.

Metabolism

In adults, 60% of the dose is excreted unchanged from the body by the kidneys.

Elimination

After administration of 10 mg in adults, the total clearance of cetirizine is

0.60 ml / min / kg, the half-life (T1 / 2) is approximately 10 hours.

Taking multiple doses does not change the pharmacokinetic parameters. When taking the drug in a daily dose of 10 mg for 10 days, no accumulation of cetirizine was observed.

After the end of treatment, plasma levels of cetirizine rapidly fall below detectable limits. Repeat allergy tests can be resumed after 3 days.

Selected groups of patients

Elderly patients:

2 was 50% higher and hatch rate was 40% lower compared to the control group.

Decreased clearance of cetirizine in elderly patients is probably due to a decrease in renal function in this category of patients.

Children:

In children 6 to 12 years of age, 70% of the dose is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

After taking 5 mg in children, the total clearance of cetirizine is

0.93 ml / min / kg.

T1 / 2 in children from 6 to 12 years is 6 hours, from 2 to 6 years – 5 hours,

6 months to 2 years – reduced to 3.1 hours.

Patients with renal insufficiency:

In patients with mild renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance (CC) ? 50 ml / min), pharmacokinetic parameters are similar to those in healthy volunteers with normal renal function .

In patients with moderate renal insufficiency

(CC 30 – 49 ml / min) T1 / 2 is extended by 3 times, and the total clearance is reduced by

70% of relatively healthy volunteers with normal renal function.

In patients on hemodialysis (CC ? 7 ml / min), when taking the drug orally at a dose of 10 mg, the total clearance is reduced by approximately

70% of relatively healthy volunteers with normal renal function, and T1 /2 lengthens by 3 times.

Less than 10% of cetirizine is removed during a standard hemodialysis procedure.

Patients with liver failure:

In patients with chronic liver diseases (hepatocellular, cholestatic and biliary cirrhosis) with a single dose of the drug at a dose of 10 or 20 mg T 1/2 increases by about 50%, and the clearance reduced by 40% compared with healthy subjects. Dose adjustment is necessary only if a patient with hepatic impairment also has concomitant renal impairment.

Indications

The use of the drug is indicated in adults and children from 6 months to relieve:

– nasal and ocular symptoms of year-round (persistent) and seasonal (intermittent) allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis : itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, lacrimation, conjunctival hyperemia

– symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria

Use in children from 6 to 12 months is possible only on prescription and under strict medical supervision!

Contraindications

– hypersensitivity to cetirizine, hydroxyzine or other piperazine derivatives, as well as to any other component of the drug,

– end-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance less than 10 ml/min) ,

– children under 6 months of age (due to limited data on the efficacy and safety of the use of the drug Zyrtec®,

With caution creatinine clearance &gt, 10 ml/min required dosage adjustment),

– elderly patients (with age-related decrease in glomerular filtration rate),

– epilepsy and patients with increased convulsive readiness,

– patients with predisposing factors for urinary retention (see section “Special Instructions”),

– children under 1 year of age, when used simultaneously with alcohol (see section “Interaction with other drugs”),

– breastfeeding period,

– pregnancy.

Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

There are limited data on the use of cetirizine during pregnancy (300-1000 pregnancy outcomes). However, no cases of malformations, embryonic and neonatal toxicity with a clear causal relationship have been identified.

Experimental animal studies have not revealed any direct or indirect adverse effects of cetirizine on the developing fetus (including in the postnatal period), pregnancy and postnatal development.

During pregnancy, cetirizine may be prescribed after consultation with a doctor if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding period

Do not use cetirizine during breastfeeding as cetirizine is excreted in breast milk. Cetirizine is excreted in breast milk in an amount of 25-90% of the plasma concentration, depending on the time of sampling after taking the drug. Adverse reactions associated with cetirizine may occur in infants.

During breastfeeding, use after consulting a doctor if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the child.

Fertility

Available data on effects on human fertility are limited, but no adverse effects on fertility have been identified in animal studies.

If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Dosage and administration

Inside.

Take the drug in the evening, because symptoms become more pronounced in the evening.

If necessary, Zyrtec® can be taken with a glass of water.

Zyrtec® can be taken with or without food.

Adults

10 mg (20 drops) once a day.

Alternatively, the dose may be divided into two doses (10 drops in the morning and evening).

Children

Use in children from 6 to 12 months is possible only on prescription and under strict medical supervision!

Children 6 to 12 months

2.5 mg (5 drops) once a day.

Children 1 to 6 years old

2.5 mg (5 drops) 2 times a day, morning and evening

The duration of treatment should not exceed 4 weeks.

Children 6 to 12 years old

10 mg (20 drops) once a day

Duration of treatment should not exceed 4 weeks .

Alternatively, the dose may be divided into two doses (10 drops in the morning and evening).

Children over 12 years of age

10 mg (20 drops) once daily

Sometimes an initial dose of 5 mg (10 drops) may be sufficient if satisfactory control of symptoms is achieved.

For children with renal insufficiency, the dose is adjusted according to CC and body weight.

Selected patient groups

Elderly patients

Due to a possible decrease in renal function, the dosage regimen of the drug should be adjusted (see subsection “Patients with renal insufficiency” of the section “Method of administration and doses”).

Patients with renal insufficiency

kidneys (creatinine clearance – CC).

CC for men can be calculated from serum creatinine concentration using the following formula: (72 ?

Dosing in adult patients with renal insufficiency

Renal insufficiency CC (ml/min) Dosing regimen

Norm? 80 10 mg (20 drops) once a day

Mild 50-79 10 mg (20 drops) once a day

Medium 30-49 5 mg (10 drops) once a day 90 055

Severe 10-30 5 mg (10 drops) every other day

End-stage – patients on dialysis &lt, 10 doses of the drug

contraindicated

Patients with impaired liver function

In patients with impaired liver function alone, no dosage adjustment is required.

Dosage adjustments are recommended in patients with both hepatic and renal impairment (see table above).

If there is no improvement after treatment or new symptoms appear, consult your doctor.

Use the drug only according to the method of application and in the doses indicated in the instructions.

Side effects

Clinical study data

Overview

90 003

Clinical studies have shown that the use of cetirizine at the recommended doses leads to the development of minor adverse effects on the central nervous system including drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness and headache. Paradoxical CNS stimulation has been reported in some cases.

Despite the fact that cetirizine is a selective blocker of peripheral h2 receptors and has practically no anticholinergic effect, isolated cases of difficulty urinating, disturbances of accommodation and dry mouth have been reported.

Abnormal liver function has been reported with elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin levels. In most cases, adverse events resolved after discontinuation of cetirizine.

List of adverse reactions

There are data from double-blind controlled clinical trials comparing cetirizine and placebo or other antihistamines used at recommended doses (10 mg once daily for cetirizine ) in more than 3200 patients, on the basis of which a reliable analysis of safety data can be made.

The following adverse reactions were reported in placebo-controlled trials with cetirizine 10 mg at a dose of 1.0% or greater in pooled analyzes

Adverse reactions

(WHO terminology) Cetirizine 10 mg

(n = 3260) Placebo 9 0055

(n = 3061)

General disorders and disorders in site of injection

0005

Nervous system disorders

Dizziness

Headache

1. 10% 0054 7.42%

0.98%

8.07%

Gastrointestinal disorders

Abdominal pain

Dry mouth

Nausea

0.98%

2.09%

1.07%

1.08%

9000 3

0.82%

1.14%

Mental disorders

Drowsiness

9.63%

5.0 0%

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Pharyngitis

1.29%

1.34%

Although the frequency of drowsiness in the cetirizine group was higher than that in the placebo group, in most cases this is an undesirable phenomenon. was mild or moderate in severity. In an objective evaluation conducted in other studies, it was confirmed that the use of cetirizine in the recommended daily dose in healthy young volunteers does not affect their daily activities.

Children

In placebo-controlled studies in children aged 6 months to 12 years, the following adverse reactions have been identified with a frequency of 1% or more:

9000 4

Adverse reactions

(WHO terminology) Cetirizine

(n = 1656) Placebo

(n = 1294)

Gastrointestinal disorders

Diarrhea

1.0%

0.6% 004

Mental disorders

Drowsiness

1.8%

1.4%

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Rhinitis

1.4%

1.1%

General and injection site disorders

0.3%

Post marketing experience

In addition to the adverse events identified in clinical studies and described above, the following adverse reactions have been observed in post-registration use of the drug.

Adverse events are presented below by MedDRA organ system class and frequency, based on post-marketing data.

The frequency of adverse events was determined as follows: very often (?1/10), often (?1/100, &lt,1/10), infrequently (?1/1000, &lt,1/100), rarely

(? 1/10000, &lt.1/1000), very rare (&lt.1/10000), frequency unknown (due to insufficient data).

Blood and lymphatic system disorders:

Very rare: thrombocytopenia

Immune system disorders: 9005 5

Rare: hypersensitivity reactions

Very rare: anaphylactic shock

Metabolic and nutritional disorders:

Not known: increased appetite

Mental disorders:

Uncommon: agitation

Rare: aggression, confusion, depression, gal lucinations

Very rare: tic

Not known: suicidal ideation , sleep disorders (including nightmares)

Nervous system disorders

Uncommon: paresthesia

Rare: convulsions

Very rare: taste perversion, dyskinesia, dystonia, syncope, tremor

including amnesia, deafness

of the organ of vision

Very rare: disturbance of accommodation, blurred vision, nystagmus

Frequency unknown: vasculitis0054 Hearing and labyrinth disorders

Frequency unknown: vertigo

Cardiac disorders

9 0054 Rare: tachycardia

Gastrointestinal disorders

Uncommon: diarrhea

Liver and bile duct disorders

phosphatase, gamma-glutamyltransferase and bilirubin)

Not known: hepatitis

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Uncommon: rash, pruritus 9005 5

Rare: urticaria

Very rare: angioedema, persistent drug erythema

Not known: acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis

Renal and urinary tract disorders

Very rare: dysuria, enuresis

Frequency unknown: urinary retention

Musculoskeletal and connector disorders tissue:

Frequency unknown: arthralgia

General disorders

Uncommon: asthenia, malaise

Rare: peripheral edema0054 Effects on laboratory and instrumental findings

Rare: weight gain

Description of selected adverse reactions

tyrizine, cases of itching have been reported, including intense itching and/or urticaria .

If you experience any side effects that are listed in the instructions or they get worse, or if you notice any other side effects not listed in the instructions, tell your doctor.

Overdose

The symptoms observed after an apparent overdose of the drug affected the central nervous system or were associated with a possible anticholinergic effect. Symptoms observed after taking at least five times the recommended daily dose included the following: confusion, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, malaise, mydriasis, pruritus, restlessness, sedation, drowsiness, stupor, tachycardia, tremor, urinary retention.

Treatment:

There is no specific antidote.

In case of overdose, symptomatic or supportive treatment is recommended. Gastric lavage and/or activated charcoal may be effective if the overdose has occurred recently. Cetirizine is partially eliminated by dialysis.

Drug interactions

parameters of cetirizine. No pharmacokinetic interactions were observed. According to in vitro tests, cetirizine does not affect the protein binding effect of warfarin.

Co-administration of azithromycin, erythromycin, ketoconazole, theophylline and pseudoephedrine did not reveal significant changes in clinical laboratory parameters, vital signs and ECG.

In a study with theophylline (400 mg per day) and cetirizine (20 mg per day), a slight but statistically significant increase in 24-hour AUC (area under the curve) was found by 19% for cetirizine and 11 % for theophylline. In addition, peak plasma levels increased to 7.7% and 6.4% for cetirizine and theophylline, respectively. At the same time, the clearance of cetirizine decreased by -16%, and also by -10% in the case of theophylline, when cetirizine was taken by patients who had previously received theophylline treatment. However, prior treatment with cetirizine did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetic parameters of theophylline.

After a single dose of cetirizine at a dose of 10 mg, the effect of alcohol (0.8‰) did not increase significantly, a statistically significant interaction with 5 mg of diazepam was proven in one of 16 psychometric tests.

Co-administration of 10 mg of cetirizine per day with glipizide resulted in a slight decrease in glucose values. This effect has no clinical significance. However, a separate dose is recommended – glipizide in the morning and cetirizine in the evening.

Absorption of cetirizine is not reduced by concomitant food intake, although absorption is delayed by 1 hour,

day) degree exposure to cetirizine was increased by approximately 40%, while exposure to ritonavir changed slightly (-11%) due to concomitant use of cetirizine.

If you are taking any of the following medicines or any other medicines (including OTC medicines), talk to your doctor before taking Zyrtec.

Special instructions

Due to the potential depressant effect on the central nervous system, caution should be exercised when prescribing Zyrtec® to children aged 6 months to 1 year with the following risk factors: sudden infant death syndrome such as (but not limited to):

– sleep apnea syndrome or sudden infant death syndrome of infants in a brother or sister,

– maternal drug or smoking abuse during pregnancy babysitter smoking (one pack of cigarettes a day or more),

– children who regularly fall asleep face down and who are not laid on their backs, gestational age) children,

– when taking drugs that have a depressant effect on the central nervous system.

The preparation contains excipients methylparabenzene and propylparabenzene, which can cause allergic reactions, including delayed ones.

Caution is required in patients with spinal cord injury, prostatic hyperplasia, or other predisposing factors for urinary retention, as cetirizine may increase the risk of urinary retention.

In patients with renal insufficiency, the dosing regimen of the drug should be adjusted (see section “Method of administration and doses”).

Due to the possible decrease in renal function in elderly patients, the dosing regimen of the drug should be adjusted (see section “Method of application and doses”).

Caution is advised when co-administering cetirizine with alcohol, as cetirizine may cause increased drowsiness.

Caution should be observed in patients with epilepsy and increased convulsive readiness.

A three-day “washout” period is recommended before the appointment of allergy tests, due to the fact that blockers of h2-histamine receptors inhibit the development of allergic skin reactions.

Read the instructions carefully before you start using the drug. Save the instructions, you may need them again. If you have any questions, please contact your doctor.