How often can children take Zyrtec for allergies. What are the recommended dosages for different age groups. What are the potential side effects and safety considerations of Zyrtec for kids. How does Zyrtec compare to other allergy medications for children.

Understanding Zyrtec and Its Forms

Zyrtec is a popular over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication used to relieve symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes in children and adults. It comes in two main versions:

• Zyrtec (cetirizine)
• Zyrtec-D (cetirizine with pseudoephedrine)

Zyrtec is available in five different forms, while Zyrtec-D comes in one form. The various formulations cater to different age groups and administration preferences.

Zyrtec Forms:

1. Tablets
2. Liquid gels
3. Chewable tablets
4. Syrup
5. Dissolving tablets

Zyrtec-D Form:

• Extended-release tablets

It’s important to note that while all forms are safe for children of certain ages, two specific forms of Zyrtec are labeled exclusively for pediatric use.

Age-Appropriate Dosages for Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D

When administering Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D to children, it’s crucial to follow the recommended age ranges for each formulation. Here’s a breakdown of the safe age ranges for OTC Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D products:

Zyrtec:

• Tablets and liquid gels: 6 years and older
• Chewable tablets: 6 years and older
• Syrup: 2 years and older
• Children’s Zyrtec dissolving tablets: 6 years and older
• Children’s Zyrtec syrup: 2 years and older

Zyrtec-D:

• Extended-release tablets: 12 years and older

Always consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider before administering any medication to children, especially those under 2 years of age.

Common Side Effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D

While Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are generally well-tolerated, they can cause some side effects. It’s essential for parents to be aware of these potential reactions:

Common Side Effects of Zyrtec:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Additional Side Effects of Zyrtec-D:

• Increased heart rate
• Feeling jittery
• Difficulty falling asleep

Most of these side effects are mild and typically resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Attention

In rare cases, Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D may cause more severe reactions. Parents should be vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if their child experiences:

• Difficulty breathing
• Trouble swallowing
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, severe dizziness)

Can Zyrtec cause serious allergic reactions? While rare, severe allergic reactions to Zyrtec are possible. If you notice signs such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Overdose Risks and Symptoms

Taking too much Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D can lead to potentially dangerous effects. Parents should be aware of the symptoms of overdose, which may include:

• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Extreme drowsiness

How should you respond to a suspected Zyrtec overdose? If you believe your child has taken too much Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D, contact your local poison control center or emergency services immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help.

Steps to Take in Case of Suspected Overdose:

1. Call 911 or your local emergency number
2. Contact poison control at 800-222-1222 (in the United States)
3. Have the following information ready:
   • Child’s age, height, and weight
   • Amount of medication taken
   • Time since the last dose
   • Any other medications or substances consumed
   • Underlying medical conditions
4. Keep the child awake and calm while waiting for emergency personnel
5. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your child’s doctor or pharmacist about all medications, vitamins, and supplements your child is taking, including over-the-counter products.

Which medications are known to interact with Zyrtec? Some drugs that may interact with Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D include:

• Opiates (e.g., hydrocodone, oxycodone)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other antihistamines (e.g., dimenhydrinate, doxylamine, diphenhydramine, loratadine)
• Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone)
• Blood pressure medications
• Sedatives (e.g., zolpidem, temazepam)
• Medications causing drowsiness

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other drug interactions may exist. Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining medications.

Health Conditions and Zyrtec Use

Certain health conditions may affect the safety and efficacy of Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D use in children. Parents should be aware of these potential concerns and discuss them with their child’s healthcare provider.

Which health conditions may be of concern when using Zyrtec? Some conditions that may require special consideration include:

• Kidney problems
• Liver disease
• Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
• Urinary retention
• Glaucoma
• Hypertension (for Zyrtec-D)
• Heart disease (for Zyrtec-D)
• Thyroid disorders (for Zyrtec-D)
• Diabetes (for Zyrtec-D)

Children with these conditions may require closer monitoring or adjusted dosages when using Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.

Comparing Zyrtec to Other Allergy Medications for Children

While Zyrtec is a popular choice for managing children’s allergies, it’s not the only option available. Understanding how Zyrtec compares to other allergy medications can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s treatment.

Zyrtec vs. Claritin:

Both Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are second-generation antihistamines, but they have some differences:

• Onset of action: Zyrtec typically works faster, providing relief within an hour
• Duration: Both medications offer 24-hour relief
• Drowsiness: Zyrtec is more likely to cause drowsiness than Claritin
• Age range: Claritin is approved for children as young as 2 years old, similar to Zyrtec syrup

Zyrtec vs. Allegra:

Allegra (fexofenadine) is another second-generation antihistamine with some distinct characteristics:

• Drowsiness: Allegra is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to Zyrtec
• Food interactions: Allegra’s absorption can be affected by certain fruit juices
• Age range: Allegra is approved for children 6 years and older, while some forms of Zyrtec can be used in younger children

Zyrtec vs. Benadryl:

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a first-generation antihistamine with different properties:

• Duration: Benadryl typically lasts 4-6 hours, while Zyrtec provides 24-hour relief
• Drowsiness: Benadryl is more likely to cause significant drowsiness
• Use: Benadryl is often used for short-term allergy relief or sleep aid, while Zyrtec is suitable for daily use
• Age range: Benadryl is generally not recommended for long-term use in children due to potential side effects

How do you choose the right allergy medication for your child? The best allergy medication for your child depends on various factors, including:

• Age
• Severity and type of allergy symptoms
• Presence of other medical conditions
• Potential side effects
• Dosing schedule preferences

Consult with your child’s pediatrician or an allergist to determine the most appropriate allergy treatment plan.

Tips for Safe and Effective Use of Zyrtec in Children

To ensure the safe and effective use of Zyrtec in children, consider the following tips:

1. Follow dosage instructions carefully, based on your child’s age and weight
2. Use the measuring device provided with liquid formulations to ensure accurate dosing
3. Administer Zyrtec at the same time each day for consistent relief
4. Be aware of potential drowsiness, especially when starting treatment
5. Avoid combining Zyrtec with other antihistamines unless directed by a healthcare provider
6. Monitor your child for any unusual side effects or allergic reactions
7. Keep Zyrtec and all medications out of reach of children
8. Check expiration dates and properly dispose of expired medication
9. Inform all caregivers about your child’s medication regimen
10. Regularly review the need for continued use with your child’s doctor

How can you help your child manage allergy symptoms beyond medication? While Zyrtec can provide significant relief, combining medication with environmental control measures can enhance its effectiveness:

• Identify and avoid allergy triggers when possible
• Use air purifiers in your child’s bedroom
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter
• Wash bedding in hot water weekly
• Encourage your child to shower and change clothes after playing outside
• Consider allergen-proof bedding covers

By combining proper medication use with these environmental strategies, you can help your child find optimal relief from allergy symptoms.

Safety Information and Side Effects

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Introduction

You know the symptoms: runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes. When your child has allergic rhinitis — otherwise known as allergies—you want to find a medication that can safely relieve their discomfort. There are so many allergy medications out there, it can be confusing figuring out which one might be best for your child.

One allergy medication available today is called Zyrtec. Let’s look at what Zyrtec does, how it works, and how you can use it safely to help treat your child’s allergy symptoms.

Zyrtec comes in two over-the-counter (OTC) versions: Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D. Zyrtec comes in five forms, and Zyrtec-D comes in one form.

That’s a lot of versions and forms, but the important thing to know is that all forms of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are safe for use in children of certain ages. That said, two forms of Zyrtec are labeled just for children.

The chart below describes the safe age ranges for each OTC form of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D.

Like most drugs, Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D have some side effects. They also have some warnings. If you have any questions about the effects of these drugs, ask your child’s doctor or your pharmacist.

Side effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D

The more common side effects of Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D include:

• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• diarrhea
• vomiting

Zyrtec-D can also cause these additional side effects:

• increased heart rate
• feeling jittery
• not feeling tired at bedtime

Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D can also cause serious side effects. Call your child’s doctor or 911 right away if your child has any serious side effects, which can include:

• trouble breathing
• trouble swallowing

Overdose warning

If your child takes too much Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D, it can cause very serious effects. Symptoms of an overdose can include:

• restlessness
• irritability
• extreme drowsiness

If you think your child has taken too much of either drug, call your child’s doctor or local poison control center. If your child’s symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

If you suspect an overdose

1. If you or someone you know may have overdosed, seek emergency care right away. Don’t wait until the symptoms get worse. If you’re in the United States, call either 911 or poison control at 800-222-1222. Otherwise, call your local emergency number.
2. Stay on the line and wait for instructions. If possible, have the following information ready to tell the person on the phone:
3. • the person’s age, height, and weight
4. • the amount taken
5. • how long it’s been since the last dose was taken
6. • if the person has recently taken any medication or other drugs, supplements, herbs, or alcohol
7. • if the person has any underlying medical conditions
8. Try to stay calm and keep the person awake while you wait for emergency personnel. Don’t try to make them vomit unless a professional tells you to.
9. You can also receive guidance from this online tool from the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

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Drug interactions

An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. Interactions can cause harmful effects or keep the drug from working well.

To help prevent interactions, talk to your child’s doctor or your pharmacist before your child starts taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D. Tell them about any medications, vitamins, or herbs your child is taking. This includes OTC medications. Some of these substances may interact with Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D.

Talking to your child’s doctor or pharmacist is especially important if your child takes any drugs that have been shown to interact with Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D. Examples of these drugs include:

• opiates such as hydrocodone or oxycodone
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (don’t use within 2 weeks of using Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D)
• other antihistaminessuch as dimenhydrinate, doxylamine, diphenhydramine, or loratadine
• thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone, or other blood pressure medications
• sedatives such as zolpidem or temazepam, or medications that cause drowsiness

Conditions of concern

Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D may cause health problems when used in children with certain health conditions. Examples of conditions that may lead to problems with Zyrtec use include:

• liver disease
• kidney disease

Examples of conditions that may lead problems with Zyrtec-D use include:

• diabetes
• liver disease
• kidney disease
• heart problems
• thyroid problems

If your child has any of these conditions, Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D may not be the best option to treat their allergies. Talk with your child’s doctor about the condition before giving your child these medications.

Your child’s allergy can’t be cured, but treatments such as Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D may help relieve their symptoms.

If you have questions about these drugs or other allergy medications, be sure to talk with your child’s doctor. They’ll work with you to find a treatment that will help relieve your child’s symptoms so your child can live more comfortably with their allergy.

If you’d like to buy Zyrtec products for children, you’ll find a range of them here.

Zyrtec Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.Cetirizine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis). If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use cetirizine in place of your epinephrine.

How to use Zyrtec

If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed, usually once daily.

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve, if your hives do not improve after 3 days of treatment, or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Get medical help right away if your condition worsens or if you think you have a serious medical problem (such as a very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).

Side Effects

Drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth may occur. Stomach pain may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: difficulty urinating, weakness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to hydroxyzine; or to levocetirizine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: difficulty urinating (such as due to an enlarged prostate), kidney disease, liver disease.

If you are using this medication to treat hives, tell your doctor right away if you have any of these other symptoms because they may be signs of a more serious condition: hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch.

This drug may make you drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Liquid products may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.

Cetirizine is very similar to hydroxyzine and levocetirizine. Do not use these medications while using cetirizine.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Zyrtec interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, irritability) may occur before drowsiness.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Different brands of this medication may have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Zyrtec 10 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: rectangular (rounded end)Imprint: ZYRTEC 10 MG

This medicine is a white, rectangular (rounded end), scored, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “ZYRTEC” and “10 MG”.

Zyrtec 10 mg capsule

Color: yellowShape: ovalImprint: Z10

This medicine is a white, rectangular (rounded end), scored, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “ZYRTEC” and “10 MG”.

Zyrtec 10 mg disintegrating tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: Z10

This medicine is a white, rectangular (rounded end), scored, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “ZYRTEC” and “10 MG”.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Zyrtec

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye. Sometimes this disease can be allergic. It occurs due to an increased, often hereditary sensitivity of the body to a particular substance. In this case, the mucous membrane of the eye of an allergic person reacts to influences that in most people do not cause a reaction. Conjunctivitis can be combined with other forms of allergies (food, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, etc.). It significantly reduces the quality of life, and with a protracted course, it can cause complications (vasculitis, corneal clouding, etc.), which can lead to a decrease in visual acuity.

ZYRTEK® for relief of symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis ⁴

ZIRTEC® can help relieve the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. The drug has a favorable tolerability profile, does not impair cognitive functions (attention, memory, thinking, speech, etc. ) ³ . ZIRTEK® is available in two convenient forms (tablets and drops). The drug in the form of drops can be used in adults and children from 6 months* ⁴ , it has an antihistamine effect, thereby alleviating allergy symptoms. Tablets and drops for allergic conjunctivitis are taken orally at a dosage determined by the instructions. Remember that the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

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

How allergic conjunctivitis manifests itself

²

The disease can begin in an acute form. Symptoms in this case are manifested by severe itching and burning of the eyelids, lacrimation, photophobia, severe swelling and redness of the mucous membrane of the eye. But more often conjunctivitis occurs in a chronic form and for many years may not cause concern to a person. During periods of exacerbation, there is a moderate burning sensation and periodic itching of the eyelids, a slight discharge. Since the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis of the eye and viral conjunctivitis have common features, it is important to correctly determine the cause of the disease in order to draw up a competent treatment regimen. In the first case, there is a clear connection with the effects of an external allergen and a frequent combination with other allergic reactions.

Main clinical forms of allergic conjunctivitis

² :

Seasonal conjunctivitis

They are observed during the flowering of certain plants (often birch, oak, alder, maple, fescue, rye, wormwood, etc.). The main characteristic of seasonal allergies is a clear pattern of exacerbations: symptoms occur in the same period of time.

Chronic allergic conjunctivitis

Among the reasons, there is an increased sensitivity to pollen, house dust, epidermal particles, animal hair, food products, dry fish food, etc. Such conjunctivitis has minor manifestations.

Drug allergic conjunctivitis

This form is one of the most frequent (over 30% of all eye manifestations of allergy). It can occur when using both local agents and systemic administration of drugs, causing damage not only to the conjunctiva, but also to the skin of the eyelids and cornea. Often the reaction is observed not to the medicine itself, but to the preservative. Conjunctivitis can be acute, subacute and chronic, developing within an hour, day and several weeks after taking the medicine, respectively.

Spring keratoconjunctivitis

This form often occurs in children, mainly in boys 3-7 years old. A symptom is papillary growths on the conjunctiva. The disease begins to appear in the spring and subsides in the fall. Finally, the reasons for it have not been established, but the negative impact of increased solar activity is undoubted. In adults, allergic conjunctivitis of this type practically does not occur.

Conjunctivitis while wearing contact lenses

It is believed that allergies to some extent occur in most patients who wear lenses. Symptoms are discomfort during their use, irritation of the mucous membrane, lacrimation, point erosion and swelling of the cornea. If you have conjunctivitis, you should stop wearing contact lenses immediately.

Conjunctivitis with dry eye syndrome

The symptoms of an allergic reaction are mixed with impaired secretion or increased evaporation of tears. The disease is chronic and is often associated with lifestyle (the need for constant visual concentration when reading, working at a computer, driving, etc.).

Allergy associated with infection

Allergic conjunctivitis in viral, fungal and parasitic eye diseases often becomes part of their symptoms. Allergy can become a response to previous therapy, to the toxic effects of the pathogen. In this case, it is important to include antiallergic agents in the treatment regimen.

1. Zaikov S.V. Allergic conjunctivitis. Newspaper “Medicine and Pharmacy News”. 2011, No. 7 (361)

2. Maychuk Yu.F. Allergic conjunctivitis. RMJ “Clinical Ophthalmology”. 2002. No. 1. S. 6

3. Curran M.P., Scott L.J., Parry K.M. Cetirizine. Review of application in allergic diseases. Medicines. 2004, Vol. 64, No. 5, pp. 523-651.

4. Instructions for medical use of the drug Zyrtec® P N014186/01, P N011930/01, http://grls.rosminzdrav.ru/, accessed: 11/17/2021

instructions for children, dosage, indications and reviews

In the article, we will consider instructions for use for children and reviews for the Zyrtec preparation.

Antihistamines actively used in pediatric practice include this medication. But no drug can be universal, and therefore it is very important to understand the features of the correct use of Zirtek drops for young patients.

Description

The drug is a representative of a new generation of antihistamines that has been produced in the pharmacological industry for a long time – more than thirty years.

The drug has long proved its effectiveness, as well as tablets. As the instructions indicate, “Zirtek” for children successfully copes independently with various kinds of allergic effects, but a particularly noticeable result can be achieved only in complex treatment, in combination with other groups of medicines. To a greater extent, this statement is true in the problem of treating bronchial asthma.

What is better – Zyrtec or Zodak – for a child from allergies: a brief…

Several studies have shown that when Zirtek is included in the treatment course for this disease, the symptoms of the latter are significantly alleviated. In addition, the drug is used for viral infections (for example, with chickenpox or the Epstein-Barr virus) and for the symptomatic treatment of skin inflammation of various origins and itching. However, despite the extensive list of useful characteristics of the drug, it should not be given to children on their own, without medical prescription. Although no study describes a negative effect on a small organism, the drug can be used only according to indications and only after examination.

Pharmacological action

According to the instructions, Zyrtec for children is an antihistamine that blocks histamine h2 receptors. As a result, this biologically active substance is not able to act on organs and tissues; accordingly, allergic symptoms do not develop. The drug contributes to the accelerated restoration of the walls of blood vessels, which reduces their permeability, eliminates itching and swelling, and also positively affects the antioxidant system of the human body. There is no bronchoconstrictor effect, it does not affect lung volume, which makes it possible to use it for children with bronchial asthma.

Zyrtec: analogue, instructions, reviews

Both drops and tablets are highly bioavailable, which means that they are absorbed almost completely from the gastrointestinal tract. The highest concentration of a drug of any form in the blood is reached after an hour ± 30 minutes, but, judging by the reviews of doctors and allergy sufferers, its effect begins in twenty minutes. The drug is excreted by the kidneys. The elimination half-life in children is: three hours – from six months to two years; five hours – from two to six years; six hours – from six to twelve years.

Forms of release and composition

The Russian pharmacological market presents such forms of the drug as tablets and drops. In both cases, the active ingredient is cetirizine. The whole difference lies only in the auxiliary components.

Drops for children Zirtek: instructions for the preparation, dosage, reviews

Such a form as syrup “Zirtek” for children with instructions for use is not on sale.

When is it applicable?

The instructions for Zyrtec for children indicate the conditions under which this medicine is prescribed.

Effective for seasonal rhinitis, hay fever, conjunctivitis and other allergic conditions caused by house dust, plant pollen, animal hair, accompanied by severe nasal discharge, sneezing, severe itching and watery eyes. A distinctive feature of this drug is effective penetration into the thickness of the skin, eliminating redness and itching in a short time period.

What are the indications for Zyrtec for children?

Helps with allergic reactions that occur due to insect bites. It is suitable for the treatment of food allergies.

According to the instructions, Zyrtec tablets for children are effective in allergic dermatoses, Quincke’s edema and urticaria.

The drug is included in the therapeutic course for children who suffer from obstructive bronchitis and bronchial asthma.

“Zyrtec” is prescribed as an anti-inflammatory agent for sinusitis, bronchitis, colds, tonsillitis, viral infections and other diseases.

Instructions for Zyrtec for children

Children’s dosage is a very delicate issue, and it doesn’t matter what drug it is. It is very important not to cause intoxication, addiction or allergies, not to harm the child’s body. A significant advantage of the drug is that it does not increase tolerance and does not cause addiction in the patient. In other words, “Zirtek” is valid for as long as it is given to children. For smooth treatment without overdose, side effects and other troubles, you need to follow the instructions exactly and know the dosage for the child well.

Drops

Zyrtec drops, according to the instructions, should not be given to children from birth.

First of all, it should be said that drops can be given to a baby from six months, and in the form of tablets – from six years. Do not give the drug to a newborn or a month old baby. How is Zyrtec taken, how many drops does a child need to achieve the desired effect? The age of the patient affects the dosage:

• 2.5 milligrams (5 drops) once a day – 6-12 months.
• 2.5 milligrams twice a day – when children are 1 year old. Instructions for use for “Zirtek” confirms this. This dosage is maintained until the age of 6 years of the child.
• Five milligrams twice a day – 6-12 years.
• Ten milligrams once a day – over twelve years of age.

Tablets

Patients after six years of age are allowed to take tablets, in which case the following dosing regimen:

• five milligrams (half a tablet) twice a day – 6-12 years;
• ten milligrams (whole tablet) once a day – after twelve years.

It is necessary to focus on the presence of renal pathology in the child (the dosage in this case should be adjusted depending on the patient’s body weight and the condition of the kidneys), prematurity and cases of allergy to the drug.

Very often pharmacies ask for Zyrtec syrup for children. The instruction indicates that there is no such form of release.

Subtleties of drug use in pediatrics

There are a number of common questions to consider regarding the way the drug is administered. The duration of the treatment course is determined only by the allergist. Therapy can be short-term (even used once) and long-term – up to several months.

Zyrtec may be diluted with water or added to the mixture, but these recommendations are not mandatory.

If the patient takes the medicine well, then it can be given “in pure form”. But the drug has a specific feature: a bitter taste and a sharp aroma of vinegar. That is why babies may refuse to take the drug (persuasions of the child during the crisis of three years can become especially difficult). In this case, you can add the drug to drink and food. It does not matter if the medication is taken with respect to food: it is allowed to drink it, including during meals. The presence of food does not affect the amount of absorption of the drug, only the speed. If you need to get a quick effect, it is better to give the drug on an empty stomach. If speed does not matter (for example, during treatment with a course), then there is no dependence on food intake.

That’s what the instructions say. Drops “Zirtek” for children from birth should not be used, only when they reach 6 months this can be done.

Is it permissible to give medicine before going to bed at night? Does Zyrtec make babies feel sleepy? It can also be given at night if the child develops drowsiness after using it (this side symptom appears in about ten percent of cases when the child sleeps from the drug). In this case, it is more than justified. Before vaccination, the drug is given according to the age norm, in the morning on the same day, no later than an hour and a half before it is carried out.

Side effects

According to the instructions for use for Zyrtec for children in tablets and drops, the drug is safe. But this does not exclude the appearance of such side effects as drowsiness, convulsive syndrome, fatigue, increased appetite, loose stools, dry mouth, rhinitis, increased heart rate, itchy rash, loss of vision clarity, anaphylaxis, urticaria. In a child, vomiting after using Zirtek is not fixed, and if it does, it serves as a reason for additional examination of the digestive system or a symptom of individual sensitivity to the drug.

It is very important to follow the dosage and instructions for “Zirtek” for children in drops and tablets.

Overdose

The development of an overdose is possible with a single use of 50 milligrams of the drug, and is manifested by: agitation, anxiety or drowsiness, confusion, diarrhea; stupor; urinary retention, itching, headache and diarrhea. It is urgent to call an ambulance, wash the stomach and drink enterosorbent. The drug can be stored for no more than five years at temperatures up to 25 ° C in places where access to animals and small patients is limited.

Which of the drugs is better: Zodak or Zyrtec

Often, mothers whose children suffer from allergic reactions ask which of the analogs is better – Zyrtec or Zodak?

Zyrtec is produced by a pharmaceutical company from Switzerland and manufactured there, as well as in Italy and Belgium.

“Zodak” – medicine from the Czech Republic. When creating these drugs, various technologies are used.

Both Zyrtec and Zodak are antihistamines. Their main influence is aimed at suppressing receptors that are sensitive to histamine, which is released in large quantities under the influence of a foreign component.

“Zodak” or “Zirtek” – which is better? In both medicines, the active ingredient is cyterizine, an antihistamine. Indications for its use are allergic diseases. Both drugs are produced in the form of tablets and drops. Same dosing method.

Although the drugs have the same active ingredients, they differ in their composition. This must be taken into account, since the child’s body can react differently to different substances.

The essential difference between “Zodak” and “Zirtek” is the cost, with a difference of several times. However, you still need to remember that Zodak is inherently an analogue, that is, a drug that can replace Zirtek.

Reviews

In their reviews, many mothers say that Zirtek is a fairly reliable and effective antiallergic drug that quickly eliminates pathological signs in young patients. Pediatricians advise using the drug before vaccinations, as the reviews note that the frequency of allergic reactions caused by vaccination is much less.

This drug is excellent for infectious and inflammatory diseases – for acute respiratory viral infections, colds, bronchitis and tonsillitis. “Zirtek”, having an anti-inflammatory effect, quickly eliminates the main manifestations, congestion, and reduces pain.