Cetirizine and its medical uses

Cetirizine sold under the brand name Zyrtec among others, is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever), dermatitis, and hives (hives).It is taken orally. [6] Effects usually start within thirty minutes and last for about a day.The degree of benefit is similar to that of other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, which is a first-generation antihistamine.Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache and abdominal pain.The degree of sleepiness that occurs is generally lower than with first-generation antihistamines because second-generation antihistamines are more selective for H1 receptors.Cetirizine causes drowsiness compared to other second-generation antihistamines.Second-generation antihistamines that do not cause drowsiness are fexofenadine and loratadine.Therefore, it is important to avoid driving and other dangerous situations while taking cetirizine.It appears to be safe for use during pregnancy, but it is not recommended during breastfeeding.The drug works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, mainly outside the brain.

Cetirizine can be used in pediatric patients.The main side effect to be aware of is drowsiness.It was patented in 1983 and put into medical use in 1987.It is on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines.It is available as a generic drug.In 2020, it was the 52nd most prescribed drug in the United States, with more than 13 million prescriptions filled.

Medical use

Allergy:

The main indications for cetirizine are hay fever and other allergies.Since the itching and redness symptoms in these conditions are caused by histamine that acts on the H1 receptors, blocking these receptors temporarily relieves these symptoms.Cetirizine is also commonly used to treat acute and (in certain cases) chronic urticaria more effectively than any other second-generation antihistamine.

Available forms

Cetirizine is sold over-the-counter in the United States as 5 and 10 mg tablets.The 20 mg strength is only available by prescription.It is also available as a 1 mg/mL syrup for oral administration by prescription.In the UK, there are up to 30 10mg tablets on the general sale list and can be bought without a prescription and without pharmacist supervision.Medication can be in the form of tablets, capsules or syrup.

Adverse effects

Common side effects of cetirizine include headache, dry mouth, drowsiness, and fatigue, while more serious but rare side effects reported include tachycardia and edema.Discontinuing cetirizine after prolonged use (usually more than six months) may cause itching all over the body.